Avoiding Fire Losses in your Home

1/27/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Spring/ Tomball

Experiencing a fire loss at your home or business can be very difficult. Anything that endangers your home, business, or family life is something most people can’t imagine or find hard to understand.  

Fortunately, some of the most common causes of fires within your home can be avoided by taking simple measures to avoid having to go through an experience like this that can be so devastating.

Here are some of the main issues you need to watch out for and how you can prevent them:

1. Cooking
2. Heating
3. Electrical
4. Smoking
5. Candles

Cooking in the kitchen causes about half of the fires within a home. Once a grease fire begins, it’s very hard to stop the spread without hurting yourself or others. Don’t walk away from food especially when using grease or oil.  It’s important to turn off the source of heat and know where your fire extinguisher is. Any portable appliances like toasters will need to be cooled before returning them to their cabinets.

Issues with heating in the home mostly come from portable methods, such as space heaters. Make sure you read all the instructions included and you know how to use the controls. It will be important to move any curtains or other flammable fabrics away from these types of items and never leave the house with them running.  

Electrical problems can occur for numerous reasons. Have a professional electrician come over to check wiring in your home and make sure that it isn’t outdated or damaged in any way. This can also occur during a new appliance installation, storm, or power outages. Only plug in the recommended number of wires into a single socket and keep loose wires organized. Any electrical problems need to be dealt with promptly by a licensed professional.

Smoking is not something you want to do within your home. Cigarettes can cause damage in more ways than one, but the most common theme is the residual slow burn of the end of the cigarette that isn’t fully put out. Always make sure that your fire alarms are up to date, fully functional, and the batteries are tested. Any flammable materials or textiles can go up in flames in a matter of minutes.  

Candles left unattended can be a huge risk for your home and family. Remember to always put candles out before you leave. Make sure to keep candles high out of the reach of children or pets who may knock them over and far away from any flammable materials in your home.

In any of these situations, you need to call a professional who can walk you through their experience. This is not something that you need to handle on your own. Our team here at SERVPRO of Spring/ Tomball is here to help with any questions or concerns you might have.

Handling your Commercial Property with SERVPRO in Houston, Texas

12/3/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Spring/ Tomball

There are over 21 million commercial establishments in the United States, occupying 4.9 million buildings. These buildings cover over 72 billion square feet or 1.6 million acres. The U.S. adds about 1.6 billion square feet per year—nearly 110,000 buildings annually, or roughly half-a-million buildings every five years. The sheer magnitude of annual growth in commercial real estate is astounding.

How are you planning on protecting your property?

Most companies attempt to treat a commercial project like a “really big house”, which is a big mistake. Calling and hiring a restoration company without the right education or credentials can cause further damage and business interruption.

With residential homes, the primary purpose is to house a family, whereas commercial structures have a variety of uses and functions. All these factors can affect the restoration process. 

Commercial facilities, if they are greatly impacted by damage, require more time for scoping, planning, and estimating. Additional square footage affected raises the requirements of the commercial project, meaning additional management staff, labor, equipment, and supplies will be needed.

SERVPRO of Spring/ Tomball has a highly trained, experienced, and certified team, able to handle all your property damage needs. Our staff receives ongoing training from our corporate training facility to meet and exceed IICRC industry certifications. This ensures we provide the proper assessment and repairs. (For more information on our training and qualifications and how we can help restore your property, please contact us directly.)

When your Houston property is the victim of a disaster or damage, such as water and fire damage, fire and smoke damage, or storm damage, every minute counts to minimize the effect on your building.

Every time we enter a commercial large loss project, we focus on the differences that occur in a commercial building over a residential home. We consider how our communication, planning, and even our conversations might have to be altered to provide the highest level of customer service on a commercial restoration project when speaking with either an owner or property management team.

Your SERVPRO in Houston, Tx cleaning and restoration team can provide support from water damage cleanup and water damage restoration to fire damage repairs and mold remediation services. As a locally owned and operated facility, we provide commercial cleaning services, residential cleaning services, biohazard cleanup, carpet cleaning, air duct cleaning, mold removal, and more.

When you have a disaster or water emergency in Houston, call SERVPRO of Spring/ Tomball, your trusted leader for restoration services, 24 hours, 7 days a week to restore your home or business. We are centrally located, and you will receive an immediate response. Faster to any size disaster. Make it "Like it never even happened."

House Fires in Houston, TX

12/3/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Spring/ Tomball

Dealing with the aftermath of a house fire in Houston can be extremely stressful especially when soot has completely covered your belongings. It should be known that fire damage cleanup is one of the most difficult aspects of a house fire.

In the event of a fire in your home, be sure to call your local Houston fire department first. Your focus should always be safety first. Once you and your family are safe and secure reach out to your insurance agent to see if an insurance claim is necessary.

This is when you call us at SERVPRO of Spring/ Tomball. Your family is safe, your insurance has been reviewed, and now you need a fire restoration company.

Soot can develop through three different methods:

• Wet soot residue results from smoldering, low-heat fires. This residue is sticky, smeary, and has a very pungent odor.
• Dry soot residue results from fast-burning fires with high temperatures. This residue is typically dry, powdery, and non-smeary.
• Protein residue is almost invisible but can discolor paints and varnishes in your home. This residue also has an extremely pungent odor.

Each type of smoke damage restoration is different and requires specific expertise to clean. You need a fire restoration company, our team here at SERVPRO of Spring/ Tomball. We are highly trained in smoke, fire and water cleanup and restoration and can assist in all aspects. We consider everything we need to clean and what our plan is moving forward.

Structural Cleaning - After a smoke or fire damage, ceilings, walls, woodwork, carpeting and floors will often need a thorough cleaning. Our team will walk your property to determine the extent of damage. We will use specific equipment and cleaning products for the different types of surfaces and products found within your structure.

Depending on the amount of soot, we can lower the cost of cleaning if lighter soot deposits are found. We can also see if the expense can be lower with repainting or refinishing. If this is not the case, we will clean to prepare for painting. This process deodorizes and ensures the new paint will adhere properly to the surface.

Contents Cleaning - All the restorable contents in affected areas will be professionally cleaned and deodorized. This includes area rugs, furniture, draperies and upholstery. Our team will begin by carefully inspecting and testing all fabrics to determine which cleaning methods are most appropriate.

Both wet and dry-cleaning services can be provided as we deodorize and restore contents to preloss condition. This process would include electronics, art, wood furniture, kitchen items, clothing, bedding and much more. Finally, we can provide an inventory list of all "to be claimed" items if so requested.

Deodorization – We provides specialized services that rid your home or place of business of offensive odors left by fire or smoke damage. We do not cover up lingering odors with a fragrance. As we seek out the sources of the odor and remove them. Ask us to explain the various methods available and which will work best for you.

No matter how difficult or hard you find your situation to be, we can help. Find your fire restoration team at SERVPRO of Spring/ Tomball to help restore your home and bring it back to pre-damage conditions.

What Is the Job of a Fire Damage Restoration Company?

12/3/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Spring/ Tomball

SERVPRO of Spring/ Tomball are some of the first responders when a home has been damaged by fire or floods, excessive water damage, or other major catastrophes. The ultimate job of a restoration company is to clean up the damage, remove it from the property and to preserve and protect the home so that it and the contents within it don't suffer from further damage.

Some restoration companies also will be able to repair your home or business to bring it back to its original condition. When hiring a water damage restoration company, you'll want to ensure you have a clear understanding and what they will and will not do at your property.

Your Insurance & the Restoration Company

After your property has suffered a major event and subsequent damage, you'll want to contact your insurance agent. Be sure to review your responsibilities with your insurance agent, and what is required by your insurance policy for cleaning up the home to prevent any additional damage. You'll want to discuss any questions you may have with your insurance agent.

Your agent may make referrals of restoration companies within the area. You can also contact a fire restoration company on your own. 

When choosing a fire damage restoration company, be sure they have all the proper certifications, are fully licensed and have at least a few years of experience in the water damage restoration industry. Make sure you're working with a company you can trust; your property is in their hands after all.

One of the benefits of working with SERVPRO is the national reputation our company has built and continues to uphold. SERVPRO franchises and employees are all upheld to strict training guidelines.

The Process Once the Fire Damage Restoration Company Arrives

Do a walkthrough of the property with our team. Point out and discuss all the areas that need to be cleaned. We may be able to identify issues that you're not aware of, so you should also allow them to thoroughly examine the issues.

We will be evaluating what will be needed in terms of time, work and equipment to clean and restore your home. You should expect that they'll provide you with an estimate for those services. 

Though insurance companies will cover most of the work done by damage restoration companies, there can be instances where not all cleaning and restoration services will be covered. You'll want to make sure you understand from your insurance company what will and won't be covered.

When they provide you with a contract, as with any contract you should read over it thoroughly and ensure that you understand the services listed and what will be done on your property. Be sure to request that you receive documentation showing the drying process and completion.

Once the work has been completed, be sure to keep a close eye on the areas where the restoration work was done, as you'll want to make sure no moisture or dampness from the water damage remain in your home.

Some Things to Look Out for When Choosing a Restoration Company

Reputable restoration companies will be IICRC certified. IICRC stands for the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification. It's a non-profit organization that offers certification programs and standards for the restoration industry.

In order to be IICRC certified, the restoration company must have proof of insurance, maintain a written customer complaint policy with follow-up on complaints, and provide the technicians with education and training to become certified.

Companies may also be members of the Restoration Industry Association (RIA). The RIA is a trade association for cleaning and restoration professionals. In addition to education and training, the trade association offers technical support and several certifications for technicians.

Here's a quick review of how to proceed when water damage strikes your home or business:
1. Be sure to choose a restoration company with an excellent reputation that have been around for at least a few years.
2. Check that your restoration company is IICRC Certified
3. Read the contract carefully and be sure to keep your own copy
4. If a problem occurs, make sure you contact your restoration company right away
5. Check with your insurance company on what is expected of you following a major loss.
6. For any insurance coverage questions, be sure you get answers in writing from your insurance company claims adjuster.
7. Remember that it's important to act fast to prevent further damage from water or flooding. This is to prevent things like mold from growing. Delays can end up costing you much more in the end in terms of recovery, salvage, and reconstruction.
8. Make sure repairs to your home are done promptly after the cleanup service occurs.

We understand how devastating a damage event can be. When you need to ensure your property is in good hands, be sure to contact our SERVPRO of Spring/ Tomball

team. We don't just clean up and remove the damage, we specialize in restoring your property to its original condition and making it "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO of Spring Fire and Water Restoration, Houston, TX

10/26/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Spring/ Tomball

SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after fire, smoke, water, mold or storm damage restoration. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration.

Our professionals are trained to work with you during the process of restoring the damaged area with your budgetary constraints in mind. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity.

When you have an emergency in your home or business, water damage or mold inspection might be needed. From storm damage repair, smoke damage from fire, or how to test for mold after water damage, we're here to help.

The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

IICRC Certified Firms must

•       Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.

•       Require a water damage restoration technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.

•       Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up to date on the latest changes in the industry.

•       Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.

•       Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The advanced water restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.

Floods can develop slowly or quickly – Flash floods can come with no warning. They can also cause outages, disrupt transportation, damage buildings, and create landslides.

Failing to evacuate flooded areas, entering flood waters, or remaining after a flood has passed can result in injury or death. Flooding is a temporary overflow of water onto land that is normally dry. Floods are the most common natural disaster in the United States.

Flood and water emergencies do not wait for regular business hours and neither do we. We provide cleaning and restoration services for water and fire damage restoration in Houston, TX, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays. See how quickly water migrates in our timeline below.

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

•       Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.

•       Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.

•       Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.

•       Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

•       Drywall begins to swell and break down.

•       Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.

•       Furniture begins to swell and crack.

•       Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.

•       A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

•       Mold and mildew may grow and spread.

•       Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.

•       Metal begins to rust and corrode.

•       Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.

•       Paint begins to blister.

•       Wood flooring swells and warps.

•       Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

•       Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.

•       Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flood and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more. Our team arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

A house fire with additional smoke damage would bring up different issues that would need to be addressed. Once we arrive onsite, our team will decide whether certain items will need to be removed or replaced. Most of the time during both water and fire restoration situations, we would need to remove the drywall. If you have a damaged roof, we would need to have the roof inspected by a roofing contractor and you would need to discuss this with your insurance company.

We have specialized and trained professionals that will ensure you have the fastest response to your disaster. Not to worry, our team has the ability to provide an estimate for any size project in a timely manner.

SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial properties. Fire, smoke damage, wind damage or water damage events; call us for all your restoration needs.

What to know when there's a Tornado Risk in Texas

7/25/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Spring/ Tomball

Tornadoes can strike without warning and destroy a community in seconds. A tornado is a rotating column of air that occurs during a thunderstorm and can have wind speeds that reach up to 300mph. Because wind is invisible, it is hard to see a tornado unless it forms a condensation funnel made up of water droplets, dust, and debris.

Know The Signs And Be Prepared

Before a tornado warning is issued for your area, here are some things to keep in mind.

1. Know the signs of a tornado, a rotating funnel-shaped cloud, an approaching cloud of debris, or a loud roar similar to a freight train. Many people have reported that when a tornado is approaching, the sound they hear is like a train barreling down the tracks.
2. Know your community's warning system and understand the difference between a tornado watch and warning through the national weather service.
3. A warning means a tornado is already occurring or will occur soon and to go to a safe place immediately. A watch means conditions are favorable, and a tornado is possible.
4. Listen to NOAA Weather Radio or your local news channel for current emergency information and instructions. With advanced technology in weather forecasting, meteorologists can pinpoint circling winds and inform the public like never before.

Assemble An Emergency Kit

Assemble an emergency kit for you and your family. Put these items in zip lock bags and store them all in a plastic tub. Many different times can make up a kit, but here are a few of the basics to keep in mind.

It's recommended to have one gallon of water per person for at least three days, drinking and sanitation. At least a three day supply of non-perishable food per person. Battery-powered or hand-crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert. A flashlight, first aid kit, and extra batteries are all essential to keep in your kit.

Where To Go

Preparation is essential, and something we should all take time to do. It's a great idea to plan ahead of a disaster and chose a place where family members can gather if a tornado is headed your way.

It could be your basement or storm cellar, a center hallway, bathroom, or closet on the lowest level. Put as many walls as possible between you and the outside.

Get under a sturdy table and use your arms to protect your head and neck. Always remember to stay away from windows, doors, and outside walls.

Understanding The Risk

Know your area's tornado risk. In the U.S., the Midwest and the Southeast have a higher risk for tornadoes. If you lived on the west coast, you probably would read about mudslides and wildfires preparedness rather than thunderstorms and tornadoes.

The infamous Tornado Alley, Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, and Nebraska, still leads in the number of tornadoes. It's crucial to plan ahead to help keep your family safe.

If You Have Storm Or Tornado Damage, Call your SERVPRO Franchise Professional

SERVPRO of Spring/ Tomball, your SERVPRO of Houston, is here to help as your water damage company for Texas. We offer emergency fire and water services as your Texas water damage restoration company for homes or businesses after a storm has passed. Some of these water damage restoration services include roof tarping, basement flooding, water removal, covering broken windows, water damage repair, sump pump, structure dry out, and any water damage restoration in Tomball, TX.

We're always available 24/7/365, even on holidays, faster to any size disaster. You can expect an immediate response day or night (281) 374-6454.

SERVPRO Spring/ Tomball Emergency Fire and Water Damage

7/25/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Spring/ Tomball

Dealing with the aftermath of emergency fire damage restoration can be extremely stressful especially when soot has made its way through your house and completely covered all of your belongings.

SERVPRO of Spring/ Tomball is trained and licensed to give you an optimal experience as we care for your residential or commercial property as your SERVPRO of Houston, independently owned and operated location. It should be known that soot restoration is one of the most difficult aspects of a house fire as it can be very damaging.

According to the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA), three of every five home fire deaths could have been prevented.

Most fatal fires happen when families are asleep giving them less than adequate time to escape. A smoke alarm stands guard around the clock, and when it first senses smoke, it sounds a shrill alarm. Smoke alarms are crucial elements in the early detection of fires.

National Fire Safety is important all year round and while the main focus is preventing residential fires, our team here at SERVPRO of Spring/ Tomball would like to remind everyone this is a great time to revisit workplace fire prevention and safety.

Below are 12 tips to ensure a fire-safe workplace:

Step 1. Get Organized– Practice good workplace housekeeping. Clutter contributes to fires by providing fuel and by preventing access to exits and emergency equipment.

Step 2. Designated Smoking Areas – Smoke only in designated areas, and extinguish smoking materials safely. Never smoke in storerooms or chemical storage areas.

Step 3. Fire Extinguishers – Maintaining the appropriate type and number of fire extinguishers and learn how to properly use a fire extinguisher.

Step 4. Electrical Hazards – Report all electrical hazards. Many fires start in faulty wiring and malfunctioning electrical equipment.

Step 5. Access to Control Panels – Electrical control panels need to have free access maintained so that the electric could be shut off easily.

Step 6. Maintenance – Maintain machinery to prevent overheating and friction sparks.

Step 7. Sprinkler Systems & Smoke Detectors – Never block sprinklers, firefighting equipment or emergency exits. Observe clearances when stacking materials. Testing of sprinkler systems and smoke detectors at least annually.

Step 8. Chemical Safety – Use and store chemicals safely. Read the label and the Material Safety Data Sheet to determine flammability and other fire hazards. Provide adequate ventilation when using and storing these substances.

Step 9. Waste Control & Storage – Control the accumulations of flammable and combustible waste materials and residues so that they do not contribute to a fire emergency.

Step 10. Prevent Ignition – Use all precautions to prevent ignition in potentially explosive atmospheres such as those containing flammable liquid vapors or fine particles. Use non-sparking tools, and control static electricity as required.

Step 11. Exits – Emergency exit diagrams should be posted and emergency exits should be well lit with neon-regulation signs.

Step 12. Contact Info – Employees should have a list of emergency contact phone numbers in case of emergency. Remember that people will often panic in an intense situation; therefore basics such as the company address, phone number and floor plan should be posted.

Planning to ensure fire protection and safety is key to avoiding unwanted fire issues.

Residential and Commercial Fire Clean Up

Soot can be one of the hardest parts of fire restoration clean up and is developed through three different methods:

·      Wet soot residue—results from smoldering, low-heat fires. This residue is sticky, smeary, and has a very pungent odor.

·      Dry soot residue—results from fast-burning fires with high temperatures. This residue is typically dry, powdery, and non-smeary.

·      Protein residue—almost invisible but can discolor paints and varnishes in your home. This residue also has an extremely pungent odor.

Each type of soot is different and requires specific expertise to clean for such needs or concerns.

Our fire repair process is outlined online for your review.

Call us at SERVPRO of Spring/ Tomball, your SERVPRO of Texas, faster to any size disaster, for all your fire and restoration needs.

Why Should You Call a SERVPRO in Houston Restoration Company?

7/9/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Spring/ Tomball

One of the biggest misconceptions about emergency fire and water situations is you will know who to call when the time comes. "I haven't had an issue yet, so when I do, I can make a decision then."

Not going to happen.

Preparing for such a disaster, especially for a commercial company, will not only provide peace of mind, but will ensure you aren't forced into making a snap decision that can potentially impact the ability to restore your home or business.

SERVPRO of Spring/ Tomball is your Texas water damage restoration company providing services for water damage repair, mold remediation, mold inspection, and residential and commercial fire clean up. When deciding on your preferred vendor, look for your SERVPRO Texas locations locally owned and operated. We provide an optimal experience and will have your SERVPRO franchise professional reach out as soon as possible.

Here's how we can help:

1. Restoration Costs Less

A complete replacement can be expensive in labor and materials, particularly if the existing materials must be removed first. Depending on the materials selected it can get very expensive. Restoration, on the other hand, requires less labor and materials, and thus costs less to restore vs. replace.

2. Restoration Extends the Life of Your Property

You can defer complete replacement and make future plans for the expenditure in your capital budget.

3. Restoration is More Sustainable

Millions of tons of construction waste end up in landfills annually. Restoration allows you to reuse your existing materials, which in turn is a much more environmentally friendly option. Plus, it can lead to steps to make your building more energy efficient and may help you qualify for ENERGY STAR or LEED credits.

4. Restoration Helps Prevent Catastrophic Loss

Ignoring the fact that your home or business is deteriorating doesn’t make the problem go away; it can only get worse. The more time passes, the greater the potential damage and the more it costs to restore it. At some point, the only option will be total replacement. Continued neglect can put your business, employees and tenants at risk.

Insulation can become wet in a variety of ways. A pipe could burst, a seam could have been improperly welded, or there could be a puncture somewhere on your roofing system, among a wide variety of other possibilities. However, just fixing the cause of the leak is not enough; the wet insulation must be removed.

Here's three potential ramifications anyone in the restoration industry would tell you about leaving wet insulation or other materials behind in your home or business:

1. Structural Stability

As mentioned above, wet materials can negatively impact your entire building. The trapped moisture can begin to degrade the foundation of your home or business starting at the location of the loss and working it’s way out. Rotting can occur and lead to collapses throughout the structure. There is also the overall weight burden to consider. As moisture is collected that particular item gets increasingly heavier. The pressure can be catastrophic to the building and lead to complete system collapse.

2. Energy Efficiency Compromised

The presence of wet products within any structure will generally negate the energy efficiency benefits of any system. This is due to the fact that the moisture is acting as a conductor of energy rather than repelling it as it is designed. Your building will now require more heat in the winter and air conditioning in the summer, resulting in higher utility bills. Moisture can specifically cause your insulation to lose as much as 40% of it’s thermal residence capabilities.

3. Indoor Air Quality

It is highly likely that your building is being occupied for a good portion of the day and/or night depending on what industry you are in. As a result, air quality is incredibly important. If anything is wet, mold and bacteria can grow. Not a good sign for healthy air or happy occupants. The longer you leave it untreated, the greater the potential danger to your occupants.

It’s important to be proactive with finding your preferred restoration company and preventing similar occurrences like the above scenario from happening. SERVPRO Tomball provides quick inspections to any sized disaster.

Call your trusted leaders at SERVPRO of Spring/ Tomball for the best water damage restoration in Tomball, TX.

24-7, 365 days a year.

Water Damage & Your Belongings

6/7/2021 (Permalink)

Here to Help.

As a leader in the cleaning and restoration industry, we strive to meet or exceed the expectations of every customer, client, and business that is involved with water damaged property. Every property, every project, every customer deserves excellence.

Water intrusion in a home or business is always a traumatic event. Effectively restoring a water-damaged property is such a valuable service to any homeowner or business owner. This type of disruption creates stress and uncertainty for many individuals and can be very costly.

This is when you call us at SERVPRO of Spring/ Tomball to provide guidance and assistance to ensure the best decisions are made through these difficult times.

Excessive water and moisture in any indoor environment can pose health risks for occupants and if it is not resolved properly. Water intrusion can cause severe damages to both your structure and contents.

Properly mitigating, drying, and restoring a water-damaged structure requires training, expertise, and specialized equipment. With hands-on experience and coaching in the field, we are the best in the industry.

The goal of emergency actions is to protect your structure and contents from further damage, establish a safe environment, extract water, demo unrestorable materials, and create the conditions for drying the structure and contents effectively. This typically involves calculating and positioning air movers and dehumidifiers within the affected area.

Once the equipment is placed, we monitor the drying process and make sure it is working properly. Monitoring services continue until the structure and contents are dry as we evaluate, update monitoring logs, and make adjustments as needed.

Call us at SERVPRO of Spring/ Tomball, “Like it never even happened.”

Water Damage Disasters

5/14/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Spring/ Tomball is here for all your restoration needs.

When your home has suffered from water damage, it can be a stressful and tense experience. If the damage is severe, you will need to hire a water damage restoration company for to repair and restore your home or business. Understanding what to expect from a water damage restoration company can help make the process less overwhelming.

There is no such thing as a small disaster, especially with intrusion of water you can’t see. It can contain bacteria, mold, rot, or other unseen damage.

Water damage can also affect the value of your property. Before you get out the mop bucket and clean it yourself, consider how the damage can potentially affect the long term structure of your home or business. SERVPRO of Spring/ Tomball professionals know how disruptive water damage can be for your business and are trained to manage the drying process from start to finish. With rapid response time and a full line of water cleanup and restoration services, we can help you regain control quickly, by helping to ensure your facility and its contents are properly dried, deodorized and protected.

Before you risk further damage to your property and potentially the long term value of your property, call your local water damage cleanup and restoration professionals at SERVPRO of Spring/ Tomball .

Flooding and Safety Tips

4/14/2021 (Permalink)

Call us at SERVPRO of Spring/ Tomball for more information about how you can stay safe during flood and storm situations 281-374-6454

Floods can be surprising and they can catch you off guard. Water is incredibly damaging, and most people would be surprised at what water can do once it sneaks its way into your home. SERVPRO of Spring/ Tomball is here for you for suggestions and life saving tips.  

Our crews are highly trained and licensed to work in these situations. It’s important to us to get out there and protect your property as quickly and professionally as possible, as we ensure the water will not migrate and cause additional damage to the surrounding areas.  

Flooding can be dangerous and scary. Be sure to have emergency kits with you at all times in case of a storm. 

If for any reason, you and your family are unable to make it out of your home or town when a storm is coming, there are ways to be Storm Ready.  

Follow the steps below to feel better prepared when a storm hits: 

1.) Have a home emergency plan. Know all of your safe exit points of the home, what to do with pets, keep on hand at least 2 Emergency Kits, and let your neighbors know you are still at the home. 

2.) Stock up on the easy essential foods, water, toiletries, candles, lighters and flashlights. Have plenty of blankets and pillows handy. 

3.)   Keep some games and toys for the children handy--Waiting for the storm to pass over might actually get boring in some cases. 

4.) Secure loose things around and on your property. 

5.) Make sure there are no branches hanging over your home or garage. 

6.) Stay in doors when the storm is upon you. 

7.) Ensure your home, contents and car insurance is adequate and current. 

8.) Learn how to safely turn off your power, water and gas. 

9.) Keep a battery powered radio nearby so you can keep up with warnings and updates on the storm. 

10.) Keep water containers, a camping stove and fuel safely on-hand 

Stay safe and prepared for storms in your area.   

Categories of Water and What that means for your home

4/14/2021 (Permalink)

Call us at SERVPRO of Spring/ Tomball for any additional information or to discuss water damage at your location 281-374-6454.

Water damage is one of the most common and costly disasters accounting for billions of dollars in losses to homeowners and renters annually. Here at SERVPRO of Spring/ Tomball, we encourage all homeowners to protect themselves with the right insurance coverage. Generally speaking, water that falls, such as rainwater, is covered by a standard homeowners insurance policy, while water that comes from the ground, such as an overflowing river, is covered by a separate flood insurance policy. 

By the same token, properly maintaining a home is one of the best ways to prevent water damage.  A homeowner can prevent water seepage by painting a water-sealant or avert a sewer backup by installing a backwater valve. The Institute for Business & Home Safety offers these additional tips for homeowners.  

A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage in an affected area. According to IICRC Standard and Reference Guide for Professional Water Damage Restoration, water is separated in three different categories dependent on the level of contamination. They are summarized as the following: 
 

Category 1 Water – That which is clean at the releasing source and does not pose a hazard if consumed by humans. Category 1 water may become progressively contaminated as it mixes with soils on or within floor coverings or building assemblies (walls, decking, subflooring). Time and temperature, which promote the growth and amplification of microorganisms in water can cause Category 1 water to degrade. Examples: burst water pipes, failed supply lines on appliances, vertically falling rainwater. 

Category 2 Water – That which begins with some degree of contamination and could cause sickness or discomfort if consumed by humans. As with Category 1 water, time and temperature can cause Category 2 water to become progressively more contaminated. 

Category 3 Water – That which is highly contaminated and could cause death or serious illness if consumed by humans. Examples: sewage, rising flood water from rivers and streams, ground surface water flowing horizontally into homes. There are two ways in which water enters a building as a result of wind storm damage. 

Call us at SERVPRO of Spring/ Tomball for any additional information or to discuss water damage at your location 281-374-6454. 

Natural Disasters and the Texas Winter Storm

4/7/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO trucks ready to go out for Texas Winter Storm

Last month’s winter storm was a real awakening for a lot of us out here in Texas. We are not new to natural disasters or having to rebuild our community, but the mass power outages and subfreezing temperatures was a crisis situation we weren’t prepared for.

Texas homeowners may be surprised to know that every state in the US is vulnerable to flooding--even the more arid ones. Changes in sea level, as well as weather patterns, are enough to create sudden floods that cause damage to homes and infrastructure in one fell swoop. Homeowners with flood coverage may be relieved to have it, but without professional cleanup, water damage can make their structures a host for mold, microbes, and further issues. Follow our guide for initial emergency water damage tips.

If you need flood damage cleanup, our storm team is ready and willing to rebuild your home to it’s original condition. As professionals, we receive the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) training to maintain high standards in addressing fire, water, and mold damage as well as restoration of structures. Our team works with you and your insurance adjuster so that cleanup complies with your policy as well as local regulations.

Your insurance adjuster can assist you in the process of completing a proof of loss for your flood claim. Make sure your proof of loss complies with the needs of the Standard Flood Insurance Policy and file promptly--within 60 days of the flood--to make sure you get compensated in a timely fashion.

Our technicians can also assist with this process by taking photos of the damage, taking inventory of possessions, and coordinating with both you and your insurance adjuster during the cleanup process. If you have crucial documents that are damaged by flooding, we can create electronic copies of the papers so that you always have access to them.

A successful cleanup begins with thorough monitoring the situation. This is why our technicians use a variety of moisture measurement technologies to evaluate the extent of damage before extracting moisture, disinfecting surfaces, and drying your home. Throughout the drying process, professionals can use penetrating and non-penetrating moisture sensors and meters to determine the progress made by the cleanup process. Infrared imaging allows technicians to see behind structures to determine if subfloors, studs, or fiberglass insulation require further drying.

Every surface in your home has an ideal humidity level to maintain its integrity, from hardwood flooring to drywall to your furniture. Our team strives to ensure that items that can be safely restored are handled with the utmost care, and possessions that require replacement are not removed without documentation and the informed consent of homeowners and insurance adjusters. If your disaster requires general contracting services for restoration, your local SERVPRO is licensed to handle this type of work.

Check out The Weather Channel as they discuss why storms are so hard to forecast.

SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball provides a mitigation service that is Faster to Any Size Disaster. If disaster strikes in your home, you can call (512) 420-9886.

Leader in the Restoration Industry

3/25/2021 (Permalink)

"Like it never even happened."

As a leader in the cleaning and restoration industry, we strive to meet or exceed the expectations of every customer, client, and business that is involved with water damaged property. Every property, every project, every customer deserves excellence.

Water intrusion in a home or business is always a traumatic event. Effectively restoring a water-damaged property is such a valuable service to any homeowner or business owner. This type of disruption creates stress and uncertainty for many individuals and can be very costly.

This is when you call us at SERVPRO to provide guidance and assistance to ensure the best decisions are made through these difficult times.

Excessive water and moisture in any indoor environment can pose health effects for occupants and if it is not resolved properly. Water intrusion can cause severe damages to both your structure and contents.

Properly mitigating, drying, and restoring a water-damaged structure requires training, expertise, and specialized equipment. With hands-on experience and coaching in the field, we are the best in the industry.

The goal of emergency actions is to protect your structure and contents from further damage, establish a safe environment, extract water, demo unrestorable materials, and create the conditions for drying the structure and contents effectively. This typically involves calculating and positioning air movers and dehumidifiers within the affected area.

Once the equipment is placed, we monitor the drying process and make sure it is working properly. Monitoring services continue until the structure and contents are dry as we evaluate, update monitoring logs, and make adjustments as needed.

Call us at SERVPRO, “Like it never even happened.”

Safety and the Initial Inspection

3/25/2021 (Permalink)

Like it never even happened.

Safety is everyone’s responsibility on a water damage work site. A primary concern in water damage safety is protecting employees. Observing appropriate safety procedures will help keep workers safe and healthy while they work in unsafe or unhealthy environments.

Restorers inspect the area where water has intruded to identify the extend to which water has mitigated through materials and the damage that has occurred. We discuss this with the building occupants about their observations to help further define the nature of the water damage. The information we gather in this initial inspection is documented and used to plan the needed emergency procedures.

During the process of drying a building, restorers conduct ongoing inspections. They inspect and measure moisture conditions inside the building and in materials affected by the water. Information gathered in the ongoing inspections is documented and used to determine whether wet materials are drying properly.

When the structure and contents are considered dry, restorers conduct a final inspection. This information is documented to show that the building materials and contents have been restored to acceptable conditions. Restorers document not only conditions of the building and structure, but also the work procedures that are followed to address those conditions.

The restorers concern with any wet building is to prevent damages caused by water and moisture from becoming worse. Effective mitigation of a water intrusion will reduce the amount of damage a property suffers and thus also reduce the cost of restoring the property to its condition before the loss. Mitigation is important because it helps the occupant recover more quickly from the water loss event.

Call us at SERVPRO for all your restoration needs.

We Respond Quick!

3/23/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball is always here and ready to help! Call our office at 281-374-6454 for more information.

When your home becomes a victim of a disaster that is spreading quickly throughout the property, you want to know that a phone call can retrieve experienced professionals with the ability to clean up the mess before your home becomes irreparably damaged. You need effective solutions to the water loss incident fast, and our franchise professionals can respond quickly to offer real-time results to the emergency in progress.

When a water disaster occurs, you need prompt water cleanup services. Many homeowners can quickly discover that recovering their home from substantial water loss situations can be overwhelming, and even stopping the source of the damage can prove problematic. For example, many residents have shut off valves for the water supply into the plumbing for their home, but few know where this shut off is, let alone how to access it if it is not out in the open. In these scenarios, you need a professional crew that can arrive shortly after you call with the expertise and experience to shut off the source of the water damage and begin effective strategies to preserve the property through extraction, drying and cleanup efforts.

Our SERVPRO professionals are a wise choice for restoring your home and mitigating the initial loss you could experience due to our commitment to having highly trained technicians available to our customers. Through the steps required to obtain the water restoration certification through the industry standard-setting organization IICRC, to our continued online and in-house educational opportunities, we can offer technicians prepared for a wide range of potential effects from significant water loss incidents to a property.

You often do not have the time to spare to get the damage and excess cleaned up when facing water loss incidents on the property. Instead of spending valuable time clicking through reviews on the internet, you can trust in the fast response and vast experience of our SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball water restoration specialists. 

Why Choose SERVPRO to Handle Your Claims?

3/23/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball works directly with your insurance company to make the process as simple as possible for you.

SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball professionals understand your situation. As an agent or adjuster, you have a responsibility to keep claims costs down while still providing the best services possible for your customers. Our highly trained professionals are uniquely qualified to help. Our results create a measurable difference, giving you many competitive advantages.

Emergency Response to Claims

Restoring property is our first priority. Your customer will appreciate the immediate response and you will know everything is being done professionally and in a timely manner to limit the damage.

Pretesting Reduces Claims Expense

Restoring property is less expensive than replacing property. Claims Professionals know the rule is, "Restore whenever possible, replace only when necessary." SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball professionals make sure pretesting is completed on every loss to determine restorability.

Claims Inventory Service

SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball professionals can provide an itemized loss inventory. You will receive a report and pictures of important items in the home or business.

Superior, Time-Tested Training

Effective training is the best way to help ensure your customers receive the service they deserve. SERVPRO franchises are trained to IICRC standards in Fire and Water Cleanup and Restoration. In addition, continuing education classes are available to Franchise Professionals and Insurance Clients at our state of the art IICRC Approved Training Facility. 

Vendor Qualification Compliance and Professionalism

If you call SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball, we will use only qualified vendors to service your customer. That commitment resulted in:

• A National Call Center to achieve prompt handling of the claim.
• Implementation of best practices and job process programs.
• National Accounts qualification criteria and annual compliance checks.
• Crew and vehicle standards.
• Insurance requirements.
• File documentation requirements.
• Quality assurance program.

Serving Adjusters and Their Clients

A SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball Professional's job is to reassure the customer, perform quality service and to report to you quickly. We know your job is to interpret the policy and adjust the claim... and not to deal with problems from vendors! Working together we strive to save you time so you can focus on priority files, while having complete control of every loss you are assigned. 24-hour emergency response, damage mitigation, loss assessment, and an electronic file are available to you within hours. SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball Professionals’ documented, measured performance increases value to you and your shareholders, managers and customers.

Hard-earned results have made SERVPRO leaders in the fire and water cleanup and restoration industry. The SERVPRO System is geared to achieve customer satisfaction and mitigation results, adding to your company’s competitive advantage.

When Should You Replace Your Smoke Alarms?

1/26/2021 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball 24/7, 365 at (281) 374-6454. We are always here to help!

3 Signs You Need to Replace Your Smoke Alarms

Having properly functioning smoke alarms in your Houston, TX home is an essential aspect of basic fire safety. These devices give you the first warning that your home is in danger in the event of a real fire. After you’ve had your fire alarm system for a while, though, it may stop working as effectively as it once did. If you notice any of the following signs, it may be time to replace the smoke alarms in your home.

1. The Alarms Are Over 10 Years Old

Like all other devices, your smoke detectors will eventually reach the point where they’re too old to work properly. To see if this is the case, simply check the date of manufacture on the back of the alarm. If at least 10 years have passed since the printed date, you’re due for a new alarm system.

2. The Alarms Fail the Monthly Test

To ensure that your fire alarm system is in top condition, you should test it at least once a month. Find the test button on the front or side of each device and hold it down for a few seconds. If the alarm doesn’t emit any sound, this is a likely indicator that the system needs to be replaced.

3. The Alarms Go Off Randomly

Your smoke detectors must do their job of alerting you of a real fire emergency before any fire or smoke damage ensues. However, if your alarms frequently go off for no apparent reason, they could be defective. To save yourself the constant noise and properly safeguard your home from danger, be sure to have new detectors installed as soon as possible.

Unfortunately, your fire alarm system may fail you unexpectedly. If you experience any signs of smoke or fire damage in your Houston, TX, home, trust fire restoration professionals to bring it back to its normal state. 

ERP: Emergency Ready Profile

12/28/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball is always here to help. Call us 24/7 at 281-374-6454!

“No one plans on a disaster, but you can plan to be ready for whatever happens!”

Whether you own a small business or corporate scale, water damage or fire damage can occur to your business. Did you know that 50% of businesses that experience a disaster may never re-open their doors? That is why we can’t stress enough, the importance of being prepared and equipped with the knowledge to mitigate until help arrives. Let us help you get prepared! Our Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) program we will provide critical information that will allow you to start mitigation and recovery services. The ERP is a quick reference guide tailored to your structure and business.

We will come to you and provide a FREE assessment of your facility. With this assessment we will create a detailed profile that references important contacts and phone numbers, such as your utility companies, insurance company, maintenance department, hospital, and other important phone numbers relative to your business. The Emergency Ready Profile will also prepare our SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball team. Don’t let your business be on the wrong side of the 50%.

We make it "Like it never even happened." 

What Can I Do When a Storm Causes Flood Damage?

12/28/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball is always here to help. Call our office 24/7 at (281) 374-6454

SERVPRO Can Remediate the Flood Damage in Your Houston, TX!

Living in Houston, TX can open your home to many heavy rainstorms. Unfortunately, if you live in an older building, this can cause some issues. Visualize an older roof, finally giving way under the weight of pooling water, and allowing it to leak into your home. You notice water begins to drip down into your bedroom from the ceiling.

Our flood damage remediation services for Houston and surrounding areas are expert-tier. SERVPRO technicians are well trained, and we use advanced technology to ensure the best service possible. If you need flood damage remediation, get in touch with us.

What Could I Do to Be More Prepared For a Flood?

If you know a severe rainstorm is on the way, you can do a few things to be prepared for the damage your home could face.

• Keep a list of emergency numbers
• Consider having spare water and food, in case of an extended power outage
• Consider calling for assistance, anticipate flooding risks

While not all rainstorms are severe or lead to electrical utility loss, it is always good to be prepared. Having bottled water and nonperishables handy can ensure you don’t need to rush to a grocery store when everyone else is. SERVPRO suggests contacting our office to set up a scheduled appointment for demonstrating our ERP Plan. The Emergency READY Profile Plan can help prevent, or at least mitigate, damages caused by intruding water, fires, or even mold.

What Can SERVPRO Techs Do Once They're Here?

Once our highly trained technicians get to your home, they can get to work right away. We can start by:

• Covering the hole on your roof with tarps, to try and stop water from getting inside
• Employ wet/dry vacuums to remove water from between your walls, your ceiling, and your bedroom floor
• Use air blasting tubes to get dry air into hard to reach places (injecti-dry advanced devices)

Here at SERVPRO, we are dedicated to helping you reduce excess moisture in your home and prevent mold damage. If you go through an unfortunate flood loss event, get the help your home deserves!

Get in touch with SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball by calling (281) 374-6454. We're here for you!

Professional to Clean Your Carpets

12/28/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball is always here to help. Call our office 24/7 at (281) 374-6454

SERVPRO Has the Knowledge and Professional Equipment to Help You Quickly

Even after a minor water leak in your Houston, TX home or business, there may be extensive damage to your carpet, especially if the moisture under the carpet pads was not detected immediately. Our professionals come in, assess the situation, address the loss, and mitigate any further damage from happening, such as warped floorboards or mold growth.

What Does SERVPRO Use to Get Rid of the Water From my Carpet?

Our Technicians Use Extraction and Drying Equipment to Clear Away Excess Moisture
Our IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) technicians use best practices to deal with the water damage in your Houston, TX home. They typically extract all standing water with portable or truck-mounted extraction equipment before going about treating and cleaning the carpet. Technicians remove the pad underneath the carpet and usually replace it.

After Extraction, What Do SERVPRO Technicians Do to Treat and Clean the Carpet?

    •    They treat the surfaces of the carpet, first checking to ensure there is no mold or damage.
    •    Use deodorizers and antimicrobial cleaners to treat the flooring and carpet backing.
    •    After putting the carpet back down, treat the front of the carpet with the same deodorizers and antimicrobials.
    •    Extract more water if needed.

After technicians treat the carpets and flooring underneath, they set about the task of thoroughly drying the room. They place air-movers around the room to forcefully push airflow over surfaces. While air movers work, dehumidifiers pull moisture out of the air and exhaust warmer air, causing the carpet to dry more quickly. Using our professional services promotes more thorough restoration in a shorter amount of time than if you were to attempt it on your own.

For premium restoration services, Contact SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball at (281) 374-6454. We make it, “Like it never even happened.”

IICRC Certified Firm

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball is IICRC Certified and here for whatever happens. Call our office at (281)374-6454 for more information.

SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) create the standards for the restoration industry and provide training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.

The IICRC Develops the Standards for The Restoration Industry

The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

IICRC Certified Firms must

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.
• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.
• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.
• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

Fire Damage Tips in Houston, TX

11/19/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball is here to help 24/7. Call us at (281)374-6454.

When damage from a fire occurs at your home or business in Houston, TX and surrounding areas, it can be difficult to know what steps to take next. You may feel fearful or hopeless as you walk through the space that used to be your safe haven. SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball has Fire Damage Emergency Tips that can be of assistance when you aren’t sure what to do:

• Limit movement in home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets.
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open to avoid microbial growth.
• Keep your hands clean so as not to further soil upholstery, walls, and woodwork.

SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball is here to help with 24/7 emergency service and timely mitigation response to help alleviate your concerns. We will work diligently to restore your home and memories back to their original beauty. 

Space Heater Safety

11/9/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball is always here to help. Call us 24/7 at (281) 374-6454.

While space heaters can help save you money on your energy bills, there are a few things you need to keep in mind when deciding to go this route. 

• Buy a space heater that is rated for your need. A heater that is too large for a certain area can lead to higher energy bills due to it consuming a lot of energy. On the other hand, if you buy one that is rated too small for your space, it will have to work harder to heat the space.
• It's suggested that you place your space heater at least three feet away from furniture, window treatments, bedding, clothing, rugs, and other combustibles. There is a chance a fire can start if these items touch the heating element of the space heater. Also, make sure to place the space heater on a hard level surface so there is less chance of it tipping over.
• Make sure the heater you purchase carries a label from either UL, ETL, or CSA. These are safety consulting and certification companies.
• It is a good idea to purchase a space heater that has tip-over and overheat protection. A heater that has tip-over protection will automatically shut off if it tips over for any reason. Overheat protection is when the space heater uses a temperature sensor to detect unsafe temperatures. When this happens, an internal switch will automatically shut off the unit.
• Plug the space heater directly into an outlet instead of an extension cord. There is an increased risk of fires if plugged into an extension cord.
• Frequently clean and maintain it to ensure it's working safely. Wiping it down is also important as this helps reduce the amount of dust and allergens that can spread.
• Turn off and unplug the space heater if not in use to reduce the chance of a fire occurring.
• Last, but not least, keep heaters away from water such as in a bathroom or a damp basement.

Tips For Protecting Your Property From Storm Damage

11/9/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball assisting Lake Charles, LA in the cleanup and rebuilding process after a devastating hurricane.

Ways To Prepare Your Property Before Storm Winds Blow

When you own property in Houston, TX, severe weather can become a major cause for concern. A single roof leak can cause a lot of damages, especially if the damaged roof goes unnoticed for a day or two. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to prepare your property before storm winds blow.

Trim Trees and Shrubs
Any weak, diseased, or dead branches could break away from trees and pose a threat to your buildings. Overhanging branches could break windows or fall onto the roof, leaving areas of missing shingles. These gaps can then lead to water damage within the building.

Upgrade Roof Shingles
When it comes to the best protection of any property, the roof is at the top of the list. When hail, rain, and wind damage or carry away shingles, the potential for leaks and further damages increases. Get high-performance shingles with UL Class 4 IR standard ratings.

Brace Garage Doors and Other Vulnerable Areas
Some exterior doors have welded steel frames with heavy-duty components, but other entrances and exits, such as garage doors, are lightweight. Pay special attention to delivery bays and similar areas. Heavy winds could blow lightweight doors onto the roof or around the property.

Replace Vinyl and Aluminum Gutters With Steel
If you live in an area where hail is a common concern, vinyl and aluminum rain gutters and downspouts are highly vulnerable to damage. When gutters are damaged, become loose, or fall away from the building, the chances of a roof leak developing increase. You may not even realize that water is leaking into the building until it's time to call a wind and water damage remediation company.

Install Protective Screens Around Your Property
Air conditioning units, heavy fans, and other equipment that's outside can be hit hard by thunderstorms and the winds and rain that come with them. Install screens to protect sensitive components of the equipment. Additionally, fencing around your property may catch debris from other buildings in the area.

From a simple roof leak to a branch through a window, it's important to immediately address property damages following a thunderstorm. Contact SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball for emergency tarping and board ups until the repair process can begin to return your building to its pre-storm condition.

Where To Look For Mold in Your Home

10/16/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball is always here to help.

When it comes to mold damage, prevention is essential to minimize the havoc that mold wreaks on your home. Mold can be hazardous to your health and your home, which gives you all the more reason to keep a sharp eye out for any signs of mold to treat it before it becomes a problem. Since mold is attracted to moisture and water, it’s natural to presume that the most common places for mold growth are in damp areas of your home, and this is correct!

To combat mold growth before it does serious damage, get in the habit of regularly checking these three locations.

1. Your Bathroom

With your toilet, shower or bathtub, and sink all being connected to sources of running water, it should be no surprise that your bathroom is one of the most frequent culprits of mold growth. Your shower and your bathtub are normally damp and retain some sort of moisture 24/7 since they often never completely dry out between uses, which makes them the perfect environment for mold spores to thrive. Make it a weekly habit to check all the nooks and crannies of your shower and bathtub for mold growth, including the shower curtain, the shower head, the faucet and faucet handles, the tub, and even your shampoo bottles and razors that you keep in the shower. Routine cleaning will help you identify and minimize mold growth as well. 

2. Your Kitchen

After your bathroom, your kitchen is the second most likely location to find mold in your home. With the dishwasher, the fridge, the kitchen sink, and other appliances that use running water, your kitchen also is set up for the accumulation of moisture that mold growth loves. Don’t forget to check underneath the sink for mold spores as well as along any windows and windowsills that are present. If your windows aren’t properly sealed, they may be a source of mold growth. Also, be sure to thoroughly dry your dishes before storing them in your cabinets! Different commonplace kitchen items like wooden spoons and cutting boards can be prime locations for mold growth. 

3. Your Bedroom

Although you might not necessarily have running water sources connected to your bedroom, it’s good practice to also thoroughly inspect it for mold on the regular. Mold can creep up in places like your air conditioning vents and units, windows and windowsills, and in curtains or on your mattress. Especially if you don’t have a mold-resistant mattress, all it may take is a little bit of moisture soaking into your mattress for mold to grow. Make it a biweekly routine to inspect your bedroom for mold in all of the places that are susceptible to it.

While these three rooms are among the top places to look for mold in your home, there are additional locations to consider when completing an informal mold inspection at home. We recommend checking out this article for a few more mold-prone areas. Whether you know you are dealing with mold or just suspect that an unidentified substance might be mold, don’t hesitate to call SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball at (281) 374-6454 to come and check it out. Mold always requires quick action, and it’s better to be safe than sorry.

SERVPRO Will Get You Back in Business Quickly

10/7/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball is always here to help

Flooding and water damage events in Houston, TX commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we're dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we will be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball

SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential properties after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO's corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Getting Rid of Odors After A Fire Damage Can Be Difficult!

8/26/2020 (Permalink)

If you have fire damage to your residential or commercial property, call SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball at (281) 374-6454, we are always here to help.

For Fire Damage Restoration and Deodorization of Your Houston, TX Home, Call SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball.

Odors are volatile molecules that people's noses sense when they are present in the air. Since fragrances can easily evaporate, they eventually go away or dissipate once the source gets removed; however, the removal process can take a long time.

What can cause smoke odors to exist?

During fire damage projects in Houston, foul aromas usually get caused by burnt materials or soot residues that are present after the blaze gets extinguished. The first step our SERVPRO technicians take during the restoration process is to remove all charred items and clean any surfaces that contain soils and soot residues. Once we capture all soils, residues, and burnt materials, we dispose of them in sealed plastic bags, so other previously unaffected areas of your home do not get contaminated.

What do you do if unpleasant smells still exist after all soot residues have been cleaned and burnt materials have been removed?

In some situations, foul aromas can still be present after soot is removed and debris has been disposed of because the smoke can penetrate porous materials deeply. When this occurs, we can use the following products and equipment to deodorize your house:

Odor Counteracting Beads- These are made of a special treated porous material that, as soon as the bag is opened, deodorant molecules get released into the air.

Deodorant Granules or Pellets- These specialized pellets or granules are odor absorbent that act as a sponge and hold in odors.

Water-Based Odor Counteract-ants- Specialized chemicals can be added to cleaning solutions that can help counteract malodor particles.

Ultra-Low Volume (ULV) Misters- ULV fog machines break down water-based deodorants into a mist so the chemicals can penetrate porous materials.

Thermal Fog Machines- Thermal machines break oil-based deodorants down even smaller so it can travel through your structure in the same way smoke did.

Sealers- Specialized sealant paints can trap in malodor molecules.

If you ever smell smoke in your home after you have a fire in Houston, TX and surrounding areas, call SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball at (281) 374-6454.

Fire Tips To Keep Your Family Safe

8/12/2020 (Permalink)

If you have fire damage to your Houston, TX home, call SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball at (281) 374-6454.

According to the American Burn Association, children are the most susceptible to burn injuries. 73% of all burn injuries happen in the home. At some point in time, children are going to be curious about fire, but it can be dangerous and costly.

Here are some tips to follow to keep your family safe according to the National Protection Association:

• Be sure to keep all matches and lighters out of the reach of children, preferably somewhere up high or in a locked cabinet.
• Closely supervise your children, making sure that they are away from any fire sources, including lit candles, cigarettes, fire pits, and stoves.
• Take advantage of any opportunity to teach your children about fire safety.
• Explain that fires are something to be taken seriously as they move very fast and can hurt you with contact.
• Teach young children to not touch matches or lighters, and to notify an adult immediately if found.
• Establish a clear set of rules and consequences about unsupervised and unapproved uses of fire.
• Remember, children are always watching. Make sure you set a good example by handling fire in a safe manner.
• Show your children appreciation for displaying respect and age-appropriate responsibility when it comes to fire.

If your children happen to burn themselves, cool the burn by running it under cold water for 10 to 15 minutes.

If it is a more serious burn, CALL 9-1-1.

The 6 Step of Water Mitigation

8/12/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball is always here to help, give us a call at (281) 374-6454 if you have storm or water damage to your Houston, TX home.

When your property incurs water damage, acting quickly is important

When you discover water damage, you can count on SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball's six-step restoration process to truly restore your property to its pre-damage condition.

6 Steps to Water Damage Restoration

1. Initial Emergency Contact
   • You can call us 24 hours a day to begin the water restoration process because taking immediate action is crucial after water damage occurs. When you call us, we will ask you questions to get an overview of the damage and to help us determine what resources to dispatch to you.
2. Inspection and Damage Assessment
   • When we arrive on the scene in response to water damage, we will do a detailed property inspection to assess the scope of the damage and to develop a thorough plan of action. We will identify the water source, the category of water, and check for safety concerns.
3. Moisture Extraction
   • The water extraction process will remove the majority of moisture via our vacuum and pump units. We will start this process as quickly as possible to lessen the likelihood of more damage occurring and to reduce drying time. We can also help you move out of your belongings in the event that they might be damaged as well.
4. Dehumidifying and Drying
   • After the excess water has been removed, we can begin fully drying all porous materials that have absorbed water. Our industrial-grade equipment moves air quickly and helps moisture to evaporate as fast as possible, which will dry out floors, walls, and carpets as well as discourage mold growth.
5. Cleaning and Repair
   • After sustaining water damage, impacted surfaces will typically require professional cleaning. In addition to structural cleaning, we will clean your belongings that are able to be restored. We will also do odor removal to prevent the musty odor that water-damaged objects often develop.
6. Restoration
   • The final step is ensuring that your property is restored to its pre-water condition. This will involve things like drywall and flooring repairs or even reconstruction. By working with us, you are working with a company that can handle all elements of the restoration, including the difficult reconstruction parts that truly restores things back to their pre-damaged state.

We Are Cleaning Experts

8/12/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball offers Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned services for your residential and commercial buildings. Call us today at (281) 374-6454.

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.

Specialized Training

We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis.

The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:

• Kitchen/Food Areas
• Bathrooms
• Schools/Classrooms
• Offices
• Retail Spaces
• Water Fountains
• Shelving/Racks
• Sales Counters
• Carpets and Rugs
• Stair Handrails
• Elevator Cars
• Playground Equipment
• Fitness Equipment

Specialized Products

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the corona virus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of COVID-19, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball, (281) 374-6454.

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/reopen-guidance.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/php/open-america/key-resources.html

Flooding Strikes Everywhere

8/11/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball at (281) 374-6454, we are always here to help!

Floods rank as one of the most common and widespread natural disasters in the United States. Whether you live near a coastline, along city streets, in the mountains, near a river or even in the desert, there is a potential for suffering flood damage. In fact, nearly 25% of last year’s claims paid by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) were for policies in moderate to low-risk communities. According the NFIP, houses in the United States have a 26% chance of being damaged by a flood during the course of a 30-year mortgage, while businesses face similar risks by flooding. On average, flood cost $6 billion in annual losses in the U.S. The following are a few more little-known flood facts:

• Flood kills an average of 140 people per year in the U.S. making flooding the deadliest disaster.
• More than half of all fatalities during floods are auto related, often the result of drivers misjudging the depth of water on a road and being swept away in a swiftly moving current.
• The principle causes of floods in the eastern United States are hurricanes and storms.
• The principle causes of floods in the western United States are snow melt and rainstorms.
• Underpasses can be some of the most dangerous places during a flash flood – especially at night, when it is difficult to see.

With over 45 years of experience, SERVPRO has restored flood-damaged homes and businesses from coast to coast. Our Global Disaster Recovery Team is trained and equipped to handle the largest storms and the highest flood waters.

It's Hurricane Season!!

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball is here to help 24/7, 365! Call us at (281) 374-6454

Hurricane Hanna made landfall in South Texas over the weekend causing some serious damage and flooding. SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball was dispatched to Corpus Christi and The Valley to assist in the cleanup process. We have crews out there right now drying out a large commercial building that has water damage from the hurricane. We also brought equipment to help other SERVPRO franchises in the area because of the large amount of water damage. 

For more information regarding Hurricanes and Tropical storms, visit the National Hurricane Center.

If you have been affected or impacted by a storm call SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball at (281) 374-6454. We are always here to help! We are now a Global Disaster Recovery Team, which means we have the proper training, equipment, and facilities located in various locations to ensure that we are always nearby and ready to help. 

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

6/29/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball at 281-374-6454 if you have any questions or concerns! We are here to help 24/7, 365 days a year!

Being open for business is just the beginning of our new journey forward. Employees may be hesitant to return to work and customers may wonder whether the businesses they patronize are safe. The COVID-19 pandemic has changed what it means to be clean. Are you ready to communicate with your customers and employees that you’ve chosen a higher standard of clean for all Americans? Are you ready to be Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned?

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive cleaning program that SERVPRO offers to commercial locations to address the current COVID-19 global pandemic. This is a level of clean that goes far beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning. This is proactive viral pathogen cleaning. When you choose Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you, your employees, your customers, and your community can rest assured that you’ve selected a higher cleaning standard—you are Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

As the #1 choice in cleanup and restoration*, we stand on over 50 years of experience and expertise to help your business become Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned. Beyond fire & water, SERVPRO professionals are trained and experienced in biohazard decontamination and chemical spills always adhering to the cleaning and decontamination standards set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local authorities.

From formulating and creating our proprietary cleaning products, like SERVPROXIDE™, at our headquarters in Gallatin, TN, to taking the utmost care while disinfecting, we will help ensure you and your business are set up to inspire customer confidence as the economy begins to reopen.

To schedule your Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation—Contact SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball today (281) 374-6454!

* #1 Choice in cleanup & restoration based Commercial Attitude & Usage Tracking study. Polling 816 commercial business decision-makers on the first choice for future needs related to cleanup & restoration work. Study conducted by C&R Research: October 2019

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned means professionally trained SERVPRO franchises perform the requested cleaning, sanitizing and disinfection services according to proprietary SERVPRO protocols and recognized industry and CDC standards with EPA approved cleaning products to deliver a SERVPRO certified cleaning experience.  Each SERVPRO franchise is independently owned and operated.

Do You Have an Escape Plane

6/29/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball is here to help 24/7, 365 days a year. Give us a call at (281) 374-6454 if you have fire damage to your home or business.

Fire Escape Plane

Studies have confirmed that a home fire is reported every 88 seconds. Once the smoke alarm sounds, a fire can spread quickly, leaving only a minute or two to escape the area. That’s why it is so important to have a home escape plan.

Start by drawing a map for your home and follow these guidelines from the National Fire Protection Association:

• Plan two way to escape from each room
• Make sure all doors and windows leading outside open easily
• Identify secondary route—a window onto an adjacent roof or a collapsible ladder from upper-story windows
• If you live in a multi-story building, plan to use the stairs—never the elevator
• Designate an outside meeting place that is a safe distance from the house where everyone should meet

First Responder Flood Tips

6/19/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball at (281) 374-6454

As a first responder, when a disaster happens your first inclination may be to rush out and help your neighbors in Houston, TX, and surrounding areas. In the case of severe flooding, extra steps need to be taken to ensure everyone’s safety and well-being.

Personal Preparation

Before heading into assisting with flood response, be sure to be up to date with immunizations. Current guidelines require the following:

• Tetanus, which requires a booster every 10 years
• Hepatitis B, which typically requires no booster except for special circumstances

What to Expect

Floods create an environment in which potential hazards could be around any corner. They can knock down power lines, pick up large debris as it flows, and cause sinkholes or unstable ground. Even using a generator or trying to drive to an area in a dire situation could result in negative consequences. Additional hazards to consider include, drowning, trees or limbs falling, carbon monoxide or chemical exposure, insects, rodents or insect infestations, injuries from lifting or falling, and hypothermia.

Protect Yourself to Help Others

As a trained first responder, you understand that you can only help if you keep safety a priority. During a disaster, the following can help make the challenging situation smoother during and after the storm:

• Wear protective clothing, boots, eye goggles, and gloves.
  • Floodwaters can pick up chemicals, bacteria, and other contaminants, so it’s ideal to wear disposable clothes to avoid spreading contamination. Wash non-disposable clothes immediately after providing assistance.
  • Flooding often results in the quick growth of mold and mildew. Wearing a certified mask can prevent breathing in spores and other particles.
• Wash hands thoroughly after touching any material or equipment that has been in contact with floodwaters.

While you may feel you are ready for anything as a first responder, your safety and that of those around you should also come first. Once everyone is safe, you can count on the experts to handle the cleanup!

We Can Help With Commercial Fire Damage in Houston, TX

6/19/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball at (281) 374-6454 if you have damage to your commercial property!

Commercial Fire Damage in Houston, TX

Our unique roster of technicians is proud of the fact that we are part of a Global Disaster Recovery Team to offer disaster relief on major loss events that have struck over the past decade. We know how to work together as a team to achieve superb results, which stands us in good stead with our commercial clients. When a fire strikes in your business, you can contact us immediately with the knowledge that we have the human resources, experience, and equipment to deal with substantial fire-loss sites. We can help return your property and its contents to its preloss condition as well as disposing of any waste debris or non-salvageable items.

The high temperatures and pressures that occur during combustion can lead to heavy lifting as well as detailed commercial fire damage restoration of your Houston, TX, and surrounding areas, business. While most of the damage is likely to push upwards onto walls and ceilings, you may find that many items below become coated in a layer of soot or dust. Firefighting procedures that use water to control the blaze can inadvertently exacerbate the situation by setting soils into fabrics or flooring.

SERVPRO commercial services share expertise in both water and fire damage restoration to ensure your business returns to its preloss condition. We can, first of all, handle much of the heavy lifting by carefully assessing the condition of debris, contents, and materials. If necessary, a crew chief can arrange for professional movers to collect salvageable items and take them to a separate warehouse for safe storage and specialized restoration. Non-salvageable items can be skipped and taken with us at the end of the service.

We can supply certified carpet cleaning technicians (CCT) to remediate residual damage to the structural contents of your business. If carpets are harmed beyond repair, we can detach and remove the carpet before replacing it with materials to match the existing ones you have.

For substantial loss duties associated with commercial property fires, contact SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball at (281) 374-6454.

Bad Odors Left Behind After Storm Damage

6/8/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball if you experience storm damage. The longer the damage sits, the worse the odors get!

If your building floods during a storm in Houston, TX, and surrounding areas, your primary concern may be the damage caused to the building. The odor left behind can be an unpleasant side effect, though. Whether the smell is caused by mold growth or some other element, storm damage remediation experts can help you not only get rid of the floodwaters and the damage they caused, but also the funky stench that they brought along.

Possible Causes of Odor

Many different smells can assail your nose when you walk into your building after a storm. It may smell musty or rotten. There are many things that can cause bad odors when you have flood damage:

• Large patches of mold
• Sewage loss
• Bacteria growth
  
  

After technicians identify the source of the odor, they are better able to address the situation. They may use a series of tests and inspections to discover exactly where the foul stench originates.

Possible Solutions for Odor

If the problem causing the smell is mold growth, technicians will often start by taking care of it before they disinfect the rest of the space that has damage. Large infestations of mold have to be remediated by professionals to make sure that the area is safe and that all of the mold has been removed, otherwise, it is likely to return.

If your building has sewage, the whole area has to be disinfected to get rid of the microbes in the contaminated floodwater. Getting rid of the issue causing the smell is often just the first step, though. Air purifiers with HEPA filters or pre-filters with activated charcoal may be needed to filter odor-causing bacteria and spores out of the air.

Whether the odor in your commercial building is caused by mold growth, sewage or some other element, our certified technicians can help you get rid of it. If you are plagued by bad smells after a storm, it's a good idea to hire someone who can identify and remove the smell completely. Call SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball at (281) 374-6454. 

Cleanup After Construction Services

6/8/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball is here to help 24/7 for all of your needs! Call us at (281) 374-6454 for any questions or concerns.

SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball helps ensure your finished projects always look their best. We can provide a thorough cleaning after construction is complete at your home or business.

What is Post Construction Cleaning?

Once the floors are down and the drywall is up, its time to remove the debris and dirt in order to lay the carpet, paint, and decorate. SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball professionals can provide the debris removal services to prepare the building for interior design. 

Final cleaning services are when you want the facility to look its best when the doors open. Your local SERVPRO Franchise Professionals provide cleaning services to give the building that extra shine. These services include showcase carpet cleaning; hard floor cleaning; ceiling walls and fixture cleaning; deodorization; air duct cleaning; debris removal; window cleaning. 

Is your building trapping moisture during construction? Excessive moisture could result in mold growth. We can provide Dehumidification and Drying services to help you eliminate moisture and prevent the potential for mold growth. 

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have the training and tools necessary to help you during your project. Call us today for a discussion on how we can help. (281) 374-6454.

Hurricane Season Is Officially Here!

6/1/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball today if you have storm damage! We will get your home or business back to "Like it never even happened."

Doesn't it seem like hurricane season just ended? Though it may seem like that, hurricane season is from June 1st through November 30th. Today is the first day of the 2020 hurricane season! Are you prepared for when disaster strikes? That being said, it’s a great time to review or create a hurricane plan should a storm threaten our area this upcoming season.

Here’s what you should consider as we approach hurricane season:

• Know your evacuation zone
• Create an emergency supplies kit
• Have a list of important documents and medications
• Think about finances- have extra cash available in the event of power outages
• Write down your hurricane plan and review with the family
• Review your insurance policies
• Strengthen your home

The names for the 2020 hurricane season are below.

Did your name make this list?

• Arthur
• Bertha
• Cristobal
• Dolly
• Edouard
• Fay
• Gonzalo
• Hanna
• Isaias
• Josephine
• Kyle
• Laura
• Marco
• Nana
• Omar
• Paulette
• Rene
• Sally
• Teddy
• Vicky
• Wilfred

For more information regarding Hurricanes and Tropical storms, visit the National Hurricane Center.

If you have been affected or impacted by a storm call SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball at (281) 374-6454. We are always here to help! We are now a Global Disaster Recovery Team, which means we have the proper training, equipment, and facilities located in various locations to ensure that we are always nearby and ready to help. 

Do You Know The Different Classes of Water Damage?

5/14/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball is a leader in water mitigation and restoration services. Our highly trained professionals create a specialized drying plan for every job, no job is exactly like another. Our crew uses a number of factors when determining the best way to dry out your Houston, TX and surrounding area home or business property. One of these factors is the class of water present. There are 4 classifications of water.

• Class 1

• A small amount of water is present in the home. 
• Less than 5% of absorbent materials such as carpet and pad are wet. 

• Class 2

• A moderate amount of water is present in the home. 
• Only 5% to 40% of the combined floor, wall, and ceiling is wet.
• Water has wicked up walls less than 24 inches. 

• Class 3

• A large amount of water is in the home.
• More than 40% of the combined floor, walls, and ceiling are wet.
• Water has wicked up walls more than 24 inches.

• Class 4

• Specialty drying situation involving deeply held or bound water, such as a saturated subfloor or soil in a crawl space.
• May require longer dry time or specialty equipment.

SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball is here for you. Our experts dry your home quickly and efficiently, making water damage “Like it never even happened.” Don’t hesitate to call us at (281) 374-6454.

Do You Pour Grease Down Your Sink?

3/31/2020 (Permalink)

If your sink pipes get clogged and bust, call SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball for your water damage cleanup!

Never pour grease down your sink!

You’ve probably heard this before, but you should definitely avoid pouring grease down your kitchen sink. It doesn’t matter if you flush it with hot or cold water. It can still congeal and cling to your pipes, and could still cause some serious blockage and water damage.

Some people use detergent to break up grease before pouring it down the drain…and that may help sometimes. But there’s no guarantee that it’ll keep the grease from sticking to your pipes, so why take the risk?

The safest thing to do is just to pour your grease in an empty can, and either let it sit or put it in the refrigerator. Once it hardens you can toss it in the trash and get rid of it. 

Pipe leaks from clogged pipes can cause water damage to your home as well as mold damage if the water damage is not soon addressed.

If you have a leaky pipe under your kitchen sink that has caused water damage to your home, please do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball today! 

Tips For Standing Water in Houston & Surrounding Areas

3/26/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball encourages you to stay safe when floodwaters are present.

Did you know that floodwater can take up to eleven days to disappear in Houston, TX and it's surrounding areas? A flood doesn’t end just because the storm ends; All of the standing water still has to be dealt with.

SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball suggests that if you have to evacuate your office to not go back until you have been told it is safe and the water has receded. 

You must be careful driving in Houston during times when the roads are flooded. Remember to “Go around. Don’t Drown!” The water may still be too deep for safe travel, even if it looks like you can pass. 

Floods are not natural swimming pools

• Sewage, debris, and other unpleasant things can be in the stormwater leftovers.
• Swimming, wading, or rafting can make you sick.
• Do not drink the water, it is highly contaminated.
• Water conducts electricity. Underground power lines can give you a dangerous shock.

Floodwaters vs. Animals in Houston & Surrounding Areas:

• Snakes and other animals may get into your building. Wear work boots and heavy gloves when the cleanup process begins.
• Some animals might find your office a cozy place to live because their home may have been destroyed. 
• If tap water is unsafe for you to drink, it is unsafe for your pets. 

If you experience flood damage to your home or business, give SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball a call at (281)374-6454.

Links:

https://www.ready.gov/floods

https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/emergency/extreme-weather/floods-standingwater.html

Evacuation When Medical Supplies Are Needed

3/24/2020 (Permalink)

Think ahead of things you might need in the event you would need to evacuate your home unexpectedly due to storm damage.

When a storm is headed your way, there are some items you can keep in a waterproof container (your emergency kit) to be prepared for possible evacuation. Medications are probably not one of them, but you can have them ready to bring with you.

SERVPRO® of Spring/Tomball suggests having these items prepared in the event you would need to evacuate your home:

• Copies of medical insurance & Medicare cards
• Warm blankets
• Extra clothing, especially socks & undergarments
• Bottled water
• Batteries for your electronic devices
• Written contact list

Some people in the Houston and surrounding areas will also need to consider the following:

• Make sure that at least one other person can get your medications & supplies
• Have at least a week-long supply of prescription medicines
• Have a list of all medications, dosages, and allergies
• Have an extra pair of glasses or extra contact lenses if needed
• Have extra hearing-aid batteries if needed
• Also, grab some games & activities for children to keep busy

If you have pets in the Houston or surrounding areas, consider these items:

• Pet food and a bowl
• Toys or comfort objects
• Vet information

Some shelters will not or cannot allow pets. Ahead of an emergency, find out which ones will allow your 4-legged loved ones. All shelters allow service animals.

Links:

https://www.fema.gov/

We are Cleaning Experts

3/17/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball today at 281-374-6454!

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.

Specialized Training

We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis.

The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets, and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:

• Kitchen/Food Areas
• Bathrooms
• Schools/Classrooms
• Offices
• Retail Spaces
• Water Fountains
• Shelving/Racks
• Sales Counters
• Carpets and Rugs
• Stair Handrails
• Elevator Cars
• Playground Equipment
• Fitness Equipment

Specialized Products

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball: 281-374-6454

Information Regarding the Coronavirus

3/13/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball if you have any concerns! (281)374-6454

About Coronavirus

The CDC is responding to an outbreak of a respiratory disease caused by a novel (new) coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) that was first detected in Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China and has spread to 60 locations internationally (as of this publication), including cases in the United States. The virus known as “coronavirus disease 2019” (abbreviated “COVID-19”) is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person or through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.

Scope of Cleanup Protocol

SERVPRO professionals can perform a proactive cleanup that involves facility or structure cleaning and disinfection where the customer states that there is no active known threat of COVID-19 contamination or exposure. The customer will be required to acknowledge that cleaning and disinfecting will only apply to the current state of the structure and contents. The structure would not be protected from future COVID-19 contamination if an infected person was to enter and occupy the building.

Cleanup Scope of Work and Planning

The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets, and tables at a minimum. These same surfaces are mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces as well, including:

• Kitchen/Food Areas
• Bathrooms
• Schools/Classrooms
• Offices
• Retail Spaces
• Water Fountains
• Shelving and Racks
• Sales Counters
• Carpets and rugs
• Stair Handrails
• Elevator Cars
• Playground Equipment
• Fitness Equipment

Cleanup and Disinfecting Procedures

Cleanup procedures generally include cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for the cleanup process, and disposal of waste.

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar type organisms to COVID-19.

SERVPROXIDE™, SERVPRO’s proprietary disinfectant, is a hospital-grade disinfectant that has demonstrated effectiveness against viruses similar to SARS-CoV-2 on hard, non-porous surfaces. In addition, SERVPROXIDE™ currently has dozens of EPA-approved claims including Feline coronavirus, Canine coronavirus, Staphylococcus (MRSA), E. coli, Salmonella, Rotavirus, Swine flu (H1N1) and more.

Porous surfaces that are not water-sensitive, such as carpet and other fabric material, cannot be disinfected but can be sanitized using SERVPROXIDE™.

Roof Damage Can Cause Further Damage to Your Home Or Business!!

2/12/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball if you experience roof damage to your commercial or residential building. We are open 24/7/365!!!

3 Ways To Maintain Your Business's Roof

A roof leak or collapse can be devastating to a business, causing flooding and ruining merchandise. Roof damage, in fact, is a difficult situation, making reopening your store in Houston, TX, a hassle and expense. Avoiding this disaster isn't impossible, but steps can be taken to minimize the chances.

1. Attend to Small Problems Quickly
Don't assume your structure is intact simply because you can't see water stains. Wind damage and harsh rain can wear it down, causing tiny complications. Contact roofing specialists to conduct biannual evaluations, looking for any of the following issues:

• Peeled edges
• Cracked roofing
• Missing shingles
• Flashing issues
  
  

Leaving any of these unattended exposes the building to leaks and water damage. Fix things as soon as they come to your attention.

2. Tend To Drainage and Debris Early
Are your gutters clear? If they become clogged, backups happen, allowing water to build in areas it shouldn't. This pressure could add unneeded pressure to the top, essentially weighing it down. That collapse is not pretty. Have property management look at the gutter system regularly, scheduling cleanouts.

Trees and brush become an additional hazard. Roof damage often happens when limbs and branches are picked up during storms and then thrown into the roofing. Those smacks punch holes and remove the protective shingles. To avoid this, have someone trim the foliage and, before a major weather event, pick up anything loose on the ground.

3. Apply To Insurance Immediately
If you need help restoring the premises, contact a water restoration company to inspect the establishment, looking for mold and flooding complications. Their recommendation may indicate a roof rebuild is needed. Don't underestimate that decision. Work with your insurance company to discuss the need, giving you the comfort of a secure new ceiling. In fact, ask about waterproofing for the future. This sealant might aid in keeping leaks from sprouting up in the future.
Roof damage has preventative measures. By looking at it periodically, management might find the weak areas, offering a chance to stop a major catastrophe. In addition, don't forget that taking care of the landscaping may also ward off potential troubles. And in case of emergencies, don't forget to call SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball!

January CE Class!

1/16/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball at (281) 374-6454

Our first class of 2020! This Continuing Education course covers Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration! In this 4-hour course from 9 am - 1 pm, we discussed the special procedures used by professionals in mitigating and restoring fire damage claims for the insured. The purpose of the course is to provide you, the insurance professional, with a better understanding of the work performed by the mitigation vendor at fire damage work sites. You will learn emergency tips which can drastically reduce the cost of the claim if performed in a timely manner. We will demonstrate examples of work performed to mitigate fire damage. This course will help you better understand what your insured is going through when they have fire damage.

If you are in need of any CE credits, call Samantha or Jack at (281) 374-6454, or email smr@SERVPROspringtomball.com to RSVP or ask for our 2020 schedule! We have classes almost every month of the year!

Visit our website for more information!

If you don't need CE credits, come on out for a tour of our facility! We want you to know what you're working with when you need home water damage mitigation or fire restoration!

Thunderstorm Awareness!

12/27/2019 (Permalink)

Many people would say hurricanes, and tornadoes are much for dangerous than a thunderstorm. Unfortunately, that isn't true. Under the right conditions, rainfall from thunderstorms can cause flash flooding which kills more people each year than hurricanes, tornadoes or lightning.

What exactly is a thunderstorm? A thunderstorm is a normal rain shower with the addition of thunder, and since thunder is the result of lightning, all thunderstorms have lightning. Thunderstorms have caused millions of dollars in damages just with the basics like rain and lighting. Thunderstorms have caused power outages that have lasted weeks at a time.

Here at SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball, we take these matters very seriously and always have a protective eye on such storm moving in on our community. For any damages related to thunderstorms please contact SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball for our expert opinion. We are always prepared during times of flooding. We have 24-hour emergency services to make sure your home is back to "Like it never even happened". 

Build Back Services

12/27/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball at (281) 374-6454

When I tell people I work for SERVPRO they often say “what’s that?”  Once I start explaining, the light goes on and they tell me they’ve seen the green vans, trucks, etc.  That tells me they haven’t needed our services in their home or business yet. What about the ones that have needed our services?  You can read for yourself what they have to say HERE!

Among the people that haven’t needed our services yet, there is often the misconception of what we can do for them. Today I’d like to shed some light on the building and reconstruction side of our business. Yes, we take away the damaged and/or affected materials but we are capable of much more than that.

Here at SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball, we have specialists trained in Fire Damage, Water Damage, Mold Remediation and more but we don’t have to leave you there. Why find yourself someone else to come in and reconstruct your home or business? We are there, we are already familiar with your area of concern, and we know what happened. No need to keep explaining and searching for someone properly licensed and insured to schedule and do the work. You already found us! We are licensed and insured and ready to begin your reconstruction.  

Chances are you’ve already experienced enough stress, let us take care of this for you. Still uncertain of what I’m talking about and thinking we can’t possibly help your unique situation?  Please, check out our Building and Reconstruction Services!

I think you will be surprised at all we can do for you. There is a reason we say we can make it “Like it never even happened.” We have trained professionals using the right tools to get the job done, commercial or residential.  Please call if you have any questions about our services or want to make an appointment. SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball (281) 374-6454.

FREE CE CLASSES!!

12/23/2019 (Permalink)

Join us once a month for our FREE CE Classes!!

Are you in need of CE Credit Hours?

LUCKILY we host Continuing Education Courses every month right here at our facility! Each course is taught by either the Owners of our Franchise or by our Commercial Marketing Representative, Keith Thompson.

Join us on January 16th, 2019 for our next CE Class--this course will cover: Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration.This course is 4 hours long--from 9 am to 1 pm.

All classes are free of charge and include drinks and light snacks. We handle all of the paperwork and get your certificate out to you as soon as possible. If you would like to RSVP please contact us at the information provided below.

Please contact Samantha Love (marketing representative) at the information below if you have any questions regarding the CE Classes or if you are interested in sending an RSVP:

Email: smr@SERVPROspringtomball.com

Cell: 281-804-8172

OR

Jack Goodroe (HR Generalist)

Email: jack.goodroe@SERVPROspringtomball.com

Phone: 281-374-6454

Christmas Fire Safety

12/23/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball at (281) 374-6454

The most wonderful time of the year is also one of the most dangerous for homeowners. All of the decorations we use to dress up our homes for the holidays—from candles to Christmas trees—can become potential fire hazards if we’re not careful. Add to the risk fireplaces, space heaters, and nonstop baking sessions, and your dream of a perfect holiday can quickly go up in smoke.

If an unexpected fire does leave your family out in the cold this season, know that you have SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball by your side. With our state-of-the-art restoration services, we can help you get your home back to normal and your New Year off to a better start!

What to do after a fire if it happens during the holidays

In the event a Christmas tree fire or other disaster does occur, your safety and recovery don’t have to be put on hold just because it’s the holiday season. As soon as the fire is out, contact your insurance company immediately to begin the claim process and take photos of the damage before any clean-up begins to maximize your insurance payment.

It’s also critical to contact a SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball right away to get a quote. We can be on-site within 24 hours—even during the holidays—to provide you with an estimate and timeline for repair. When your claim is approved, we’ll not only repair your home’s fire and smoke damage but also clean and dehumidify your home to prevent mold growth from water and chemical extinguishers, if needed. 

Water or Fire Damage in Texas

11/6/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball's Employees of 2019!

SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball!! Give us a call if you experience any water or fire damage in Houston, TX or surrounding areas! We can help you get your home or business back to "Like it never even happened." With emergency 24-hour service available, SERVPRO has your back. Give us a call at (281) 374-6454 or check us out on Google or Facebook! 

We are proud to share this photo of our employees! We have grown over the years and we, at SERVPRO, want to thank all our customers for trusting our trained professionals to fix their homes! Check out some of our phenomenal customer testimonials to see for yourself just how satisfied our customers were! We strive to ensure that our customers are treated with the utmost respect and care. We want to make sure that every family we help is happy with the work we have provided! 

Do you have bad odors in your home?

11/1/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball at (281) 374-6454 for your bad odors at home!!

Even a small fire can cause odors for years to come if the affected areas are not properly cleaned and deodorized.  Fire, smoke and soot damage in your home or business can be unpleasant and potentially permanent problems.

As various materials burn, the smoke produced travels throughout the structure leaving odorous residues and deposits on surfaces and hard-to-reach places. Unless fast, professional action is taken, these residues and deposits can cause permanent damage to contents and may result in resurfacing odors. 

With technicians certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration (IICRC), SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball's Professionals provide specialized services that can rid your home of offensive odors left by fire or smoke damage. SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball's professionals do not cover up lingering odors with a fragrance; they seek out and remove the sources of odor. Once the source is found, SERVPRO’s own proprietary line of cleaning products are used to treat and prevent the odor from returning. Any restorable item in affected areas will also be cleaned and deodorized, including furniture, draperies, upholstery, electronics, art, flooring, walls, ceilings, HVAC air ducts, and more!

If you suffer from fire damage or some other accident and require deodorization services, contact us today! Whether it is fire, water or mold damage, or just a stubborn odor that refuses to go away, we’ll help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Safety Tips For Halloween!!

10/31/2019 (Permalink)

STAY SAFE AND HAPPY HALLOWEEN FROM SERVPRO OF SPRING/TOMBALL!!

Walk Safely

1. Cross the street at corners, using traffic signals and crosswalks. Look left, right and left again when crossing and keep looking as you cross. 
2. Put electronic devices down, keep heads up and walk, don’t run, across the street.
3. Teach children to make eye contact with drivers before crossing in front of them.
4. Always walk on sidewalks or paths. If there are no sidewalks, walk facing traffic as far to the left as possible.
5. Children should walk on direct routes with the fewest street crossings.
6. Watch for cars that are turning or backing up. Teach children to never dart out into the street or cross between parked cars.
7. Join kids under age 12 for trick-or-treating. If kids are mature enough to be out without supervision, tell them to stick to familiar areas that are well lit and trick-or-treat in groups.

Costumes for a Safe Halloween

1. Decorate costumes and bags with reflective tape or stickers and, if possible, choose light colors.
2. Choose face paint and makeup whenever possible instead of masks, which can obstruct a child’s vision.
3. Have kids carry glow sticks or flashlights to help them see and be seen by drivers. 
4. When selecting a costume, make sure it is the right size to prevent trips and falls. 

Drive Extra Safely on Halloween

1. Slow down and be especially alert in residential neighborhoods. Children are excited on Halloween and may move in unpredictable ways.
2. Take the extra time to look for kids at intersections, on medians, and on curbs.
3. Enter and exit driveways and alleys slowly and carefully.
4. Get rid of any distractions - like your phone - in your car so you can concentrate on the road and your surroundings.
5. Turn your headlights on earlier in the day to spot children from greater distances.
6. Popular trick-or-treating hours are 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Be especially alert for kids during those hours.

It's winter, let's be prepared!!

10/30/2019 (Permalink)

Knowing the correct steps to take to prepare for the winter months is very important, and SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball is here to help. Think safety first and allow these following tips to help keep you and your family safe:

• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and change the batteries if needed.
• Warm your car outside and not in the garage to avoid carbon monoxide entering the house.
• Prevent water pipes from freezing by covering them if possible and turn off the water valve connected to the outside faucets.
• During the holiday season, keep holiday electrical cords and lights away from water.
• Use battery-operated candles.
• Get your heater inspected.
• Inspect your fireplace/chimney.
• Check your clothes dryer vents for lent build up.

Call SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball (281) 374-6454.

Highly Trained Restoration Specialists

Our SERVPRO Professionals are highly trained in property restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO's Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC industry certifications, our Professionals are equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. The SERVPRO training program includes the following:

• IICRC Training
• Employee Certification Training
• Initial Franchise Training
• Continuing Education Classes

OCTOBER & NOVEMBER BIRTHDAY'S!!

10/30/2019 (Permalink)

{H A P P Y - B I R T H D A Y} to our employees celebrating their birthdays in the month of October and November!! We appreciate all of your hard work and we hope that you have a wonderful birthday!!

Every first Friday of the month, we celebrate the birthdays of our employees for the month. We appreciate all of our employee's hard work and dedication to make sure that we provide the best of services to our customers. Our highly trained professionals strive to ensure customer satisfaction. When a customer is happy with our services, we know we did our best to ensure that their home or commercial property is back to "Like it never even happened."

Without their commitment to this company, we would not be where we are today. So, thank you SERVPRO employees for everything you do! 

Fire Safety Tips for Turkey Day!!!

10/30/2019 (Permalink)

As people look forward to their Thanksgiving feasts, fire safety is rarely their first concern. According to the National Fire Protection Association, Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires. As you begin plans for turkey and stuffing, be sure to keep these safety tips in mind to help prevent injury and property loss due to fire.

BE PROACTIVE

• Test the batteries in your smoke alarms. Press the test button on your units to make sure they work.
• Prevent fires by making sure your oven and stovetop are clean and free of grease and dust.

BE ATTENTIVE IN THE KITCHEN

In 2015, U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated 1,760 home cooking fires on Thanksgiving. Unattended cooking was by far the leading contributing factor in cooking fires and fire deaths, and cooking equipment was involved in nearly half (48 percent) of all reported home fires.

• Stay in the kitchen when cooking on the stovetop and keep an eye on the food.
• Stay in the home when cooking your turkey as well, and check on it often.
• If you must step away from your cooking, set a kitchen timer so you don’t get distracted by guests.
• Keep children at least three feet away from the stove, oven, hot food and liquids. Steam or splash from vegetables, gravy, or coffee could cause serious burns.
• Keep items that can catch fire away from the cooking area.
• Make sure the floor is clear of tripping hazards.
• Turn pot and pan handles inward and away from the front or edge of the stove.

BE MINDFUL OF OPEN FLAME

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, candles are responsible for an estimated 15,600 residential fires per year, resulting in 150 deaths, 1,270 injuries, and $539 million in property damage.

• Ensure matches and utility lighters are out of the reach of children.
• Never leave children alone in a room with a lit candle.

BE CAUTIOUS DEEP-FRYING YOUR TURKEY

In recent years, it has become trendy to deep-fry turkeys instead of cooking them in the oven. Deep-frying a turkey, which involves submerging an entire bird in hot cooking oil, is so dangerous that the NFPA specifically discourages this cooking technique. A small amount of cooking oil coming into contact with a burner can cause a large fire, and without thermostat controls, deep fryers may also overheat the oil to the point of combustion. In 2015, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reported that there had been more than 168 turkey-fryer related fire, burn, explosion, or CO poisoning incidents since 2002, causing 672 injuries and $8 million in property damage.

• Never use a deep fryer on a wooden deck, under a patio cover, in a garage, or in an enclosed space.
• Fryers should only be used outdoors on a sturdy, level surface isolated from anything that could burn.
• Keep children and pets out of the 3-foot radius around your fryer to protect against burn injuries.
• The pot, lid, and handles of a turkey fryer can be incredibly hot. To protect hands and arms against burns, wear long, well-insulated cooking gloves.
• Wear safety goggles to protect your eyes from oil splatter.
• Keep an all-purpose fire extinguisher nearby and never use water to extinguish a grease fire.
• Make sure the turkey is completely thawed and thoroughly dried before it is placed in a fryer. The water from a frozen turkey will not mix with the oil in the fryer and can be an explosion hazard. The National Turkey Foundation recommends that you add 24 hours of thaw time in the refrigerator for every five pounds of turkey weight. Thawing in the refrigerator is the safest option, and turkeys should never be defrosted on the countertop.

Large Loss Storm Damage

10/30/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball is here to help YOU 24/7, 365 days a year! We are prepared for anything and everything!

SERVPRO is a staple in the restoration business. We here at SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball take care of the greater Houston area of Texas. We share that market with other restoration companies, as well as other SERVPRO franchises. What sets us apart from the rest besides expert level experience and great customer service, is the fact that all SERVPRO franchises can come together to help one another. We had a very large storm team during Tropical Storm Imelda, because Imelda caused severe flooding, back in September of 2019. We, in the SERVPRO industry, call that a Storm Team. Its when a catastrophic storm hits a certain area and causes more damage than one franchise can handle on their own. So we can act like the large restoration company you want, with a small shop vibe that demands over the top customer service. When SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball received calls asking for help in Beaumont, TX, we immediately loaded our trucks and sent our crews out to aid in the clean up of our great city. That is why you remember seeing all those green trucks driving around town! 

If you experience storm damage, give us a call! We don't mind driving the extra miles to help our community.    

Fire Damage Restoration Clean Up Tips!!

10/22/2019 (Permalink)

Call us as soon as you experience fire damage. SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball will be out as soon as possible!!

Fire – even in small amounts – can be extremely dangerous even if the after-effects are not immediately visible. There are a few things that need to be known before entering the home after you have had a fire. Fire damage restoration is almost always necessary.

First, consult a fire marshal and ensure that it is safe to re-enter the home after fire damage. Even though you may want to inspect and see what survived the fire, you need to be safe for obvious reasons. Fire can cause the home to be extremely unstable and dangerous.

Immediately following the fire, call SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball to help assess the damage in the home and begin the cleanup process. Our trained and certifies professionals can save a lot of money, time and keep your family safe when dealing with fire damage, but here are some things you can do before we arrive to help speed up the process a bit more.

Remember: DO NOT enter your home without approval from a fire marshal!

Fire Damage Restoration Clean Up Tips:

• Open all windows and doors to ventilate and help get the smoke out as much as possible.
• Cover any clean, unaffected pieces of furniture up with plastic to make sure they are not damaged in the cleanup process.
• Do not try to clean anything yourself. The soot and smoke that has set into the furniture and carpet can be dangerous.
• Don’t plug in any electronics. Call an electrician to inspect for any electrical damage from the fire.
• Throw out any open of possibly exposed foods that make have been contaminated from the fire.

Fire and smoke are very tricky problems to deal with, and should only be taken care of by professionals who are well educated in the field. At SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball, our highly trained fire damage restoration technicians know that areas of the home that may look unaffected by the fire may still possibly be dangerous. We promise to inspect every cavity of your home to make sure every bit of smoke damage is taken care of so you can get back into your home as soon as possible.

NOVEMBER FREE CE CLASS!!!

10/22/2019 (Permalink)

Are you in need of CE Credit Hours?

LUCKILY we host Continuing Education Courses every month right here at our IICRC facility! Each course is taught by either the Owners of our Franchise or by our Commercial Marketing Specialist.

Join us on November 21st, for our FREE CE Class-- this course will cover: Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration 9am-1pm.

All classes are free of charge and include drinks and light snacks. We handle all of the paperwork and get your certificate out to you as soon as possible. If you would like to RSVP please contact us at the information provided below.

Please contact Samantha Love (marketing representative) at the information below if you have any questions regarding the CE Classes or if you are interested in sending an RSVP:

Email: smr@SERVPROspringtomball.com

Cell: 281-804-8172

OR

Jack Goodroe (HR Generalist)

Email: jack.goodroe@SERVPROspringtomball.com

Phone: 281-374-6454

Disaster Recovery Team

10/17/2019 (Permalink)

This month we were able to travel to Beaumont, TX to assist with services after the flooding from Imelda. Our crews headed out a couple of weeks ago and will be heading back home soon! We enjoy being able to help those in need in times like these. Driving the extra miles is worth it when you're doing what you love, helping others. 

We mean it when we say We are Faster to Any Size Disaster. Once we receive an emergency call, we set up our SERVPRO Green Fleet and stock it with the necessary equipment and our certified professionals immediately roll out!

If you experience flood damage, don't hesitate to call! SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball is here for you when you need us the most. 

Paces4Pink 2019!!

10/7/2019 (Permalink)

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an annual international health campaign organized by major breast cancer charities every October to increase awareness of the disease and to raise funds for research into its cause, prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and cure.

This year SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball had thirty-five participants in the 7th Annual Paces4Pink Breast Cancer Awareness Event! Paces4Pink, formerly Sherine's Stride, was designed to raise awareness of breast cancer and bring families, friends, and guests together for support. Sherine Amanollahi was a Tomball Police Dispatcher who lost her fight against breast cancer in 2012 at age 30.

This is a certified 5k run or 1-miles walk. All of the proceeds are donated to our local, non-profit, TOMAGWA to provide free breast cancer screenings. Please feel free to invite all friends and family to this great event next year!

SEPTEMBER BIRTHDAYS!!

9/11/2019 (Permalink)

{H A P P Y - B I R T H D A Y} to our employees celebrating their birthdays in the month of September!! We appreciate all of your hard work and we hope that you have a wonderful birthday!!

Every first Friday of the month, we celebrate the birthdays of our employees for the month. We appreciate all of our employee's hard work and dedication to make sure that we provide the best of services to our customers. Our highly trained professionals strive to ensure customer satisfaction. When a customer is happy with our services, we know we did our best to ensure that their home or commercial property is back to "Like it never even happened."

Without their commitment to this company, we would not be where we are today. So, thank you SERVPRO employees for everything you do! 

Prepare For Hurricanes!!

9/3/2019 (Permalink)

As hurricane Dorian approaches Florida's east coast, Floridian residents are bracing for impact.  A Cat 4 storm has the strength to tear roofs off houses, spawn deadly storm surge and flooding, and devastate entire communities. There are a number of ways to help minimize property damage, but first and foremost is to ensure personal safety by adhering to evacuation orders, if issued.

Our crew member here at SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball have been warned and have a bag packed to be dispatched to Florida if necessary. We are always ready and here to help!

AAA is urging Floridians to prepare themselves and their properties, and has put forth the following prep tips:

First, when it comes to protecting your property, eliminate any projectiles:

• Secure windows and doors with hurricane shutters or plywood.
• Bring outdoor furniture and decorations inside.
• Bring in all bikes and children’s toys to prevent them from becoming projectiles or sustaining damage from the storm.
• Trim trees or bushes that could cause damage to your home in case of high winds.
• Moor your boat, trailer, gear, and supplies.

Secondly, brace doors and openings:

• Inspect the exterior of your home for minor repairs needed to roof, windows, downspouts, etc.
• Look for cracks of light around window or door frames, which need to be sealed to prevent water invasion.
• Brace your garage door from falling and close interior doors.
• An opening in the house during a hurricane causes depressurization, which can cause a house to collapse or lose its roof.
• Stack sandbags, and check with local authorities to determine if sandbags are being distributed to area residents. Fill and stack sandbags in front of doors and other openings to prevent floodwaters from creeping inside your home.

Round up your records:

• Gather important documents such as birth certificates, Social Security cards, insurance and mortgage documents, medical records, etc. Make sure these documents are in a safe place that’s easily accessible.
• In the case of an evacuation, ensure you bring these documents with you.

Gather supplies:

• After the hurricane passes, you may lose access to basic services, such as power and water; so be sure to stock up on essentials now and build a disaster kit to last you and your family for a minimum of 7 days.
• Water – Pack a minimum of 1 gallon per person per day for seven days.
• Food – Non-perishable packaged or canned food and juices you can consume without cooking, in case of a power outage.
• Flashlights, Batteries, and Chargers – Be sure to have flashlights, extra batteries, battery-powered radio, and cell phone chargers.
• Withdraw cash – Remember, banks will be closed during the storm. If there is a loss of electricity, ATMs and credit card machines will be inoperable.
• Keep your gas tank full. During extreme weather conditions, local gas stations may experience limited supplies, possible outages, and even closures. Make sure you are fueled up and prepared to respond to an emergency evacuation order.
• Have some packaged snacks, such as granola, peanut butter, and bread, on hand to feed the family as you wait out the storm.
• Other essentials – Ensure you have all other medications, first aid kit, blankets, toiletries, diapers, baby food, and supplies for your pets.

Pack prescriptions:

• Pack a 7-10 day emergency supply of essential or priority medications stored in a waterproof, childproof container.
• Include an up-to-date list, including all prescription medications, dosage amounts and the names of their generic equivalents, and known allergies
• Pack any non-prescription drugs, including pain and fever relievers, diuretics, antihistamines, and antidiarrheal medications stored in childproof containers.

Related: 

• 10 natural disaster safety tips
• Catastrophe planning: Ensuring calm during the storm
• After a disaster: Falling trees, rodent infestations and more

Apartment Complex Fire Damage

8/26/2019 (Permalink)

An apartment complex located in Houston, TX experienced a major fire that caused damage to multiple units. SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball was notified of the loss and we sent our trained professionals to assess the job to get the complex back to "Like it never even happened."

If you experience fire damage to your commercial property, give us a call! We will have someone out as soon as possible to do an inspection. After our inspection is complete, we will have a crew out as soon as you want them to start the cleanup and demo process. 

To be prepared for instances such as a fire, call us today to set up an Emergency Ready Profile (ERP). An ERP will speed up the inspection process as well as the cleanup process! 

Kitchen Fire Safety When Using Grease

8/13/2019 (Permalink)

Steps To Follow After A Storm

8/13/2019 (Permalink)

Your heart sinks and your mind races after a storm hits and damages your home. What should you do? Can you fix anything yourself? Should you start calling contractors? Help!

Below are some basic steps to follow after a storm strikes your home and causes damage.

Step One: Assess the Damage, call SERVPRO and Take Photos

After the storm has passed and it’s safe to venture outside, grab your camera or smartphone and start taking pictures and capturing video. Remember: Be safe. Downed power lines and high water can be deadly, and it’s not worth risking your life for photos that can be taken at a later, safer time. Call SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball to start the inspection to make sure your home gets repaired quick!

Step Two: Stop the Water

If water and wind are getting into your home, don’t stand around waiting for help, try to make temporary repairs. For example, cover broken windows with plywood or a tarp.

Step Three: Save Receipts, Stay Organized

Paperwork is crucial in the world of homeowners insurance. Staying organized now can alleviate headaches and problems later. Receipts are crucial to save as they can possibly be reimbursable. 

Step Four: Call Your Insurance Company Soon and Often

Contact your insurance agency as soon as possible to file a claim. Make sure you know who your insurance adjustor is sending out so you don't have scammers knocking on your door. Disreputable contractors may show up unannounced at your doorstep promising to fix things. Have a conversation with your insurer before any work is done. Most of the time your insurer will tell you who’s showing up and when. Get everything you can in writing. 

SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball will be at your doorstep as soon as possible to make sure your home gets back to "Like it never even happened."

Hazmat and Bio Hazard Trained

8/13/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Spring/ Tomball

SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball is hazmat and biohazard removal trained and we are ready to help you when you're in need!

What is biohazard cleanup? Biohazard cleanup is anything from cleaning blood, urine, vomit, human fluids, and animal feces. Here at SERVPRO, we have the proper equipment, PPE, and training to make sure there is no harm caused by these types of incidents. General maid services don't have the expertise to do so. This is why you can rely on SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball to get the job done quickly, safely, and to sanitation standards. Many homes and buildings that have been left unattended and/or improperly cared for will generally require this type of service. SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball will remove all hazardous items and properly dispose of them. If you or your business is in need of biohazard removal, please do not hesitate to call today at (281)374-6454. We have 24/7 emergency response and are ready when you are!

Water Damage Is Unexpected!

8/9/2019 (Permalink)

You never know when water damage could strike your home or business. All it takes is a backed-up sink or toilet, a pipe leak or burst, a leaky appliance or even a flood. No matter the cause of loss to your property, you need immediate water removal and structural drying to get your home or business back to normal before further damage is caused.

SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball offers 24/7 emergency response for water damage. We use dehumidifiers and air moves with monitoring equipment and moisture metering to ensure a complete dry out to make your property "Like it never even happened." 

We are here to help you through this process and to make things as easy for you as possible. Call us at (281)374-6454 when you have water damage!

SERVPRO FREE CE CLASSES

7/30/2019 (Permalink)

Are you an insurance adjustor and are in need of CE credit? We offer FREE classes almost every month of the year!! 

Please come enjoy breakfast, lunch, snacks, and drinks on us in an enjoyable environment and state of the art classroom. It is our goal to make your experience as easy and enjoyable as possible! So, please come and join us as you earn your CE credit hours!

We offer multiple four-hour classes as well as combo classes with two, two-hour courses. Some courses are also IICRC approved! All of our courses are hosted by one of our certified instructors. 

If you would like to sign up for any of our upcoming courses or if you have any questions or concerns, please email smr@SERVPROspringtomball.com or call (281)374-6454

Have You Experienced A Commercial Water Damage?

7/29/2019 (Permalink)

There’s no such thing as a small disaster, especially when the water you don’t see contains bacteria or can cause mold, rot, and other unseen damage.

Water damage can affect the value of your property. Before you get out the mop bucket and try to clean it yourself, consider how the damage can affect your commercial property. SERVPRO® of Spring/Tomball Professionals know how disruptive water damage can be for your business and are trained and equipped to manage the drying process from start to finish. With rapid response time and a full line of water cleanup and restoration services, we can help you regain control quickly, by helping to ensure your facility and its contents are properly dried, deodorized and protected.

Before you risk further damaging the value of your commercial facility by attempting to clean the mess yourself, call your local water damage cleanup and restoration professionals at SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball!!

Hot Water Heater Burst!!!

7/10/2019 (Permalink)

Some of our local residents weren't expecting their hot water heater to burst; they weren't expecting to have to call SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball.

This home was flooded from a hot water heater, almost every home has one and we don't ever expect it to fail on us, however, you never know when yours will. Be ready to call us at SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball, we will always be ready for you! 

Once we received a call from these homeowners we immediately had a production manager on site to assess the job and inspect the home. After our inspection, we had a water mitigation crew out to extract the water and start the demolition process. We then set up our certified fans and drying equipment to make sure all of the water and moister was removed from the home. After the drying process is finished, we send out our build back crew members to begin the repair process to make your home look "Like it never even happened." 

Not only did our crews repair these homeowners home, but we also removed all of their personal belongings into our personal, climate controlled, secured storage units for safe keeping. 

Fire Safety For Independence Day!!

7/2/2019 (Permalink)

Summer is here and SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball is here to prepare you with fire safety tips for your commercial or residential property. 

Independence Day is just around the corner and between the barbecues, fireworks, and bonfires during the heat of the year, we want to make sure that our community is safe from fire damage. 

July is one of the peak months for grilling fires. Enjoy grilling your favorite meals this summer while also keeping your family safe.

• Check gas grill hoses for cracks, holes, and leaks.
• Keep children away from grills. Gas leaks, blocked tubes, and propane tanks can be a cause of grill fires and explosions.
• Never grill indoors, in the garage, in an enclosed area or on a surface that might catch fire.
• Keep the grill at least two feet away from decks, siding, branches and any outdoor equipment that can catch fire quickly.

If you experience fir damage, you can call us 24/7/365 at (281)374-6454

ERP Ready For Unexpected Commercial Damages

6/28/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage in local building.

Standing water anywhere in your residential or commercial property is bad news and must be acknowledged and dealt with as soon as possible. It doesn’t matter if the water came from a leaky toilet, broken pipe, or sewer backup; Even a half-inch supply pipe can leak quickly and cause a big problem.  Of course, once all the water has been removed from your property, there’s still the task of restoring your property. In some cases, mold can begin growing in moist areas in as little as 48 hours. Therefore, it’s very important to ensure there are no moist areas around your property that could serve as a breeding ground for mold growth. That’s where the experts at SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball can help you!! Call us anytime and we’ll get your property back to "Like it never even happened," in as little time as possible.  To ensure a quick process, we also offer Emergency Ready Profiles for your commercial property. Call us at (281)374-6454 to get yours started with us! 

Water Damage;Be Ready

6/27/2019 (Permalink)

2017 saw Tropical Storm Harvey in the United States. Billions of dollars’ worth of damage to economies, communities displaced, and people killed – it’s a terrifying window into the devastating impacts of water-related extremes. Urgent action is needed to manage these hazards and minimize future suffering. SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball acts fast and we are always prepared. Call us at (281)374-6454 as soon as possible after you have water damage in your home or commercial property. It's hurricane season and you need to be prepared!

Commercial Fire Damage!

6/20/2019 (Permalink)

A Ford dealership needed assistance after devastating fire damage and SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball was quick to respond. If fire damage occurs at your commercial or residential property, we are always here to help! Give us a call at (281) 374-6454.

Fire and smoke damage is highly destructive if not properly cleaned in a timely manner. Smoke and soot residue can settle on surfaces throughout the property and will begin to permanently stain within hours. Water from firefighting efforts can also cause significant damage to both the structure of your business or home.

Our smoke and fire damage restoration begins with an initial assessment and an estimate. We then board-up windows and doors and tarp roofs and other areas, if necessary, to secure your property and prevent further damage. We can extract water and dry out areas damaged by firefighting efforts. Then we deodorize and restore your home or business to its original condition, "Like it never even happened."

Emergency Ready Profile

6/19/2019 (Permalink)

EMERGENCY READY PROFILE(ERP)!!

What is an ERP you ask? 

Well, an ERP is an Emergency Ready Profile that we make pertaining to the layout of your commercial building. ERP's are used in circumstances where a disaster has occurred and you contact us to come out and perform mitigation services. An ERP will help business' save time and money. This profile creates a less stressful manner of dealing with the disaster. 

An ERP will contain the following:

• A No Cost assessment of your facility.
• A Concise Profile Documentation that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
• Provides Facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas, and priority contact information.
• Identifies the line of command for authorizing work to begin and authorization during the working process.

With this profile, SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball will have a complete layout of your building to be fully prepared for any disaster or incident strike!!

Don't let our first exposure to your building be during a disaster response. If we become familiar with your property now, we can get started with mitigation faster and get your business up to pace as quickly as possible.

If you have any questions or are interested in an Emergency Ready Profile being done for your commercial building, please give us a call at 281-374-6454. 

CALL US TODAY TO GET STARTED!!

Disaster Relief

6/18/2019 (Permalink)

After months of political battles, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a $19 billion disaster relief bill (H.R. 2157) in May of 2019, providing aid to areas hit by hurricanes, flooding, tornadoes, wildfires, and other natural disasters.

The disaster relief bill also includes a 4-month extension to the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), finally providing some extended security to the program, which has seen 12 short-term extensions since its original expiration date in September 2017.

The bill passed the House with a vote of 354-58. The Senate previously passed the bill on May 23. It now goes to the White House. President Donald Trump has indicated he will sign the bill.

The $19 billion will fund a number of federal programs that provide aid and rebuilding assistance to local communities, farmers, service members and others nationwide.

Breaking down the $19 billion, $900 million has been allocated for aid in Puerto Rico, where Cat-5 Hurricane Maria devastated the U.S. territory in 2017, killing an estimated 3,057 people. The bill also will aid flood victims in the Midwest, particularly farmers who are being stifled by months of relentless inclement weather and fallout from the President’s recent trade tariffs.

Wildfire victims and programs in California will see long-awaited relief, too. The bill contains $2.4 billion for community development block grants to address disasters that have occurred since 2017; $3 billion for the Agriculture Department to cover producers’ losses from those disasters; and $720 million for the Forest Service to repay money spent fighting last year’s wildfires.

Large Loss Comes With Cost

6/18/2019 (Permalink)

It is easy to be overwhelmed by the scale of a large loss. One of the most crucial skills for any repair and remediation expert is the ability to see past the devastation and quickly and accurately compile an estimate for any size project. At SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball, we have specialized, trained, professionals that will ensure that you have a fast response to your disaster.

Sell yourself short and your estimate will not cover the costs of your company’s skills, time and materials. Aim too high and you will be undercut by competitors. It is a fine balance, so we make it fair for you!

Don't hesitate to call us when you are in a need at (281) 374-6454, we are here to help!!

"Why should I have flood insurance?"

6/5/2019 (Permalink)

According to the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), flooding is the most common natural disaster in the United States, affecting every single state. While hurricanes are mostly responsible for massive flooding catastrophes, other causes of flooding include snowmelt, heavy rain, dams or levees breaking, and new developments impacting water flow. In the past couple of years, many homes that were not in high-risk flood zones experienced flooding simply due to heavy rainfall.  In case you didn’t know, your homeowner’s policy will not cover damages caused by flooding. So, purchasing a flood insurance policy is a wise idea even if your home is not located in areas that are more common to flood. Just one inch of flood water in your home can cost thousands of dollars. Flood water is contaminated water and, according to industry cleaning standards, every material affected by flood water must be removed and discarded. Imagine if a few inches of flood water entered your home. Now imagine needing to replace your flooring, sheetrock, cabinets, furniture, clothes, electronics, etc. How much do you think this would cost you? Purchasing a flood insurance policy will save you time and money, helping you and your family recover faster. Well, what do you need to know about flood insurance before speaking to your insurance agent? Below are a few facts about flood insurance and helpful tips to make you a more informed insured.

When should I purchase a flood insurance policy?

Do not wait for hurricane season to purchase a flood insurance policy. The average flood insurance policy takes 30 days to become active. However, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, a policy may go into effect sooner: 

• If your building is newly designated in a high-risk Special Flood Hazard Area, and you buy flood insurance within the 13-month period following a map revision: One-day waiting period.
• If you buy flood insurance in connection with making, increasing, extending or renewing your mortgage loan: No waiting period.
• If you select additional insurance as an option on your flood insurance policy renewal bill: No waiting period.
• If your property is affected by flooding on burned federal land, and the policy is purchased within 60 days of the fire-containment: Possible waiver of the waiting period.”

But, for the most part, damages from flooding will only be covered after the thirty day wait period. Now is the best time to purchase a policy.

What is covered by a flood insurance policy?

Flood insurance is available to homeowners, business owners, and renters. For homeowners, your flood insurance policy will offer up to $250,000 for repairing the home itself and offer up to $100,000 for replacing personal items and your home’s contents. Business owner policies will offer up to $500,000 for building repairs and $500,000 in building contents. Renters can purchase policies covering up to $100,000 of personal contents.

According to FEMA:

“Building coverage includes:

• The insured building and its foundation;
• The electrical and plumbing system;
• Central air conditioning equipment, furnaces, and water heaters;
• Refrigerators, cooking stoves, and built-in appliances such as dishwashers; and
• Permanently installed carpeting over unfinished flooring.

Contents coverage includes:

• Clothing, curtains, furniture and electronic equipment;
• Portable items such as; window air conditioners, microwaves and dishwashers; and
• Carpeting that is not already included in property coverage.”

Policy prices will differ based upon deductible, the extent of coverages, flood risk, year of building construction, and other factors. The flood insurance market is evolving. Private insurance companies are beginning to offer flood insurance policies now. Speak with your insurance agent to see if you could benefit from purchasing a private flood insurance policy.  

How do I purchase a flood insurance policy?

Speak with your insurance agent to learn more about the National Flood Insurance Program and private insurance policies. They should help you to understand which options are best suited for your home and/or business. If your agent does not sell flood insurance, contact the NFIP Referral Call Center at 800-427-4661 for a referral.

What do I do after a flood?

If your home or business has been damaged by flood waters, then please do not enter the property until it is safe to do so. Once you can access your property again, start with contacting your insurance company to file a claim. Then, you can begin to inventory damaged items. Take photographs of everything and write down each item’s purchase date and estimated value. This home inventory list will need to be submitted to your adjuster. Make sure to reach out to SERVPRO as soon as possible to ensure that your home gets cleaned up and back to preloss condition. Also, remember to take notes of your conversations with your insurance company and the adjuster. Jot down the date and time of each interaction, as well as specific notes about what was discussed.

If you do not have a flood insurance policy and your home or business has been damaged due to flooding, then you will be financially responsible for necessary repairs and restoration services. Only if a flooding incident has been declared a national disaster by the president will FEMA assistance become available. This assistance is usually in the form of a grant or low-interest disaster loan that you are required to repay.

The recovery process following flooding disasters is long and emotional. SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball understands the stress and worry you will feel after your home has incurred damages. As your neighbors and your friends, we offer our expertise, guidance, and 24-hour emergency restoration services for those in need of disaster recovery. For questions or to receive assistance please contact our office by dialing 281-374-8172.

For more information about the National Flood Insurance Program or what to do before, during or after a flood you can visit:

https://www.floodsmart.gov/how/what-to-know-before-buying-a-flood-insurance-policy

https://www.floodsmart.gov/

https://www.iii.org/article/facts-about-flood-insurance

https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4310-4313/updates/facts-and-myths-about-flood-insurance

https://www.disasterassistance.gov/

HURRICANE SEASON IS HERE!!

6/3/2019 (Permalink)

Hurricane Season is here and will be until around Early November as expected.

Let's talk FACTS: Most Hurricanes rage harmlessly in the sea without ever making landfall--but when they do you should be SERVPRO Ready!

Hurricanes cause billions of dollars worth of destruction EVERY YEAR. They can cause over 11,000 deaths, over 231 hurricane landfills absorbing homes, your local coffee shop and even a mall.

Be prepared! Here are some safety tips during Hurricane Season:

1.)  Stay Indoors

2.)  Unplug Appliances

3.)  Get a battery operated radio to listen to updates on the weather

4.)  Have a first aid kit handy

5.)  Stay together as a community, because there is nothing more powerful than a community that rebuilds together!

If flood waters reach into your home do as much as you can to either keep it out or get it out! Standing water is bad water!

Stay safe, and watch the weather!

FREE CE CLASS - Biohazard Cleanup and Deodorization of Malodors

6/3/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Spring/Tomball will be hosting a 4-hour combo Class on June 20th, 2019. This class will cover Biohazard Cleanup and Deodorization of Malodors! 

So what will this course cover?

This course has been specifically designed to teach and explain the special procedures used by professionals after incidents with biohazard contaminate's and how to clean malodors. The purpose of the course is to provide attendees with a better understanding of the work performed by our SERVPRO crew members on the work sites.

Classroom Credit= 4 hours

Light Drinks and Snacks will be provided throughout the class.

TIME- 9am-11am and 11am-1pm

DATE- June 20th, 2019

LOCATION- SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball- 33550 Pinehurst Loop Magnolia, TX 77355

FOR RESERVATIONS please call 281-374-6454 or Email us at- smr@SERVPROspringtomball.com OR jack.goodroe@SERVPROspringtomball.com

MAY IS WATER SAFETY MONTH!!

5/24/2019 (Permalink)

In recognition of the popularity of swimming and other water-related recreational activities in the United States, and the resulting need for ongoing public education on safer water practices, the month of May 2019 is National Water Safety Month!

Property Disasters don’t take time off to celebrate, in fact, many fire, water and other property emergencies happen during fun times with family and friends. If you or someone you know suffers a property damage event, don't hesitate to give us a call - our specialized equipment and highly trained professional staff have the scope of services to handle your property restoration needs from start to finish.

We understand you may not have all the answers, this may be the first traumatic experience with your residential or commercial property, calling our team connects you to a professional staff that can provide the answers to your restoration concerns and tailor a solution to restore your home or business, “Like it never even happened.”

We are open 24/7/365 - Give us a call at (281) 374-6454! We will get a crew out to your property as soon as you call!

Are Your Prepared For An Unexpected Storm?

5/24/2019 (Permalink)

Storms occur with little warning and can be especially devastating, so you’ll need the company that you can trust to rise to the occasion - SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball is THAT company. We are a turnkey operation, meaning that we DO IT ALL from start to finish! Regardless of the type of storm, SERVPRO Franchise Professionals can handle any size disaster, residential or commercial. During catastrophic storms and major events, our Disaster Recovery Team can respond quickly with additional resources.

• Flooding caused by heavy rains
• Hurricanes and tidal surges
• Tornadoes and wind damage
• Ice and Snowstorms 
• Wildfires

SERVPRO Is Here To Help You!!

5/24/2019 (Permalink)

Experiencing a fire in your home or business can be an overwhelming and traumatic experience. It can be difficult to know who to call and what steps to take to mitigate the damage while coping with your loss. At SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball, we are here to help. Our experienced and compassionate team will be your guide throughout the restoration process and will work directly with your insurance company to ensure your property is restored as quickly as possible. Our crew teams will be out immediately after you make the phone call. We have teams on call 24/7/365.

We are a full-service operation and are certified, licensed, and prepared to perform fire and smoke damage cleanup and repairs. Fire damage restoration is extremely complex, and often requires emergency board-up or tarping, contents pack-out, smoke cleanup, and even water cleanup. At SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball, we are equipped to handle all of these complexities with ease, simplifying the entire process for our customers. Give us a call at (281) 374-6454

MAKE SURE YOU'RE PREPARED FOR FLOODING!!!

5/14/2019 (Permalink)

Failing to evacuate flooded areas, entering flood waters, or remaining after a flood has passed can result in injury or death. Flooding is a temporary overflow of water onto land that is normally dry. Floods are the most common natural disaster in the United States.

Floods can develop slowly or quickly – Flash floods can come with no warning. They can aslo cause outages, disrupt transportation, damage buildings, and create landslides.

IF YOU ARE UNDER A FLOOD WARNING, FIND SAFE SHELTER RIGHT AWAY

• Do not walk, swim, or drive through flood waters. Turn Around, Don’t Drown!

  • Just six inches of moving water can knock you down, and one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away.

• Stay off of bridges over fast-moving water.

• Determine how best to protect yourself based on the type of flooding.

  • Evacuate if told to do so.

  • Move to higher ground or a higher floor.

  • Stay where you are.

HOW TO STAY SAFE WHEN A FLOOD THREATENS

Prepare NOW

• Know types of flood risk in your area. Visit FEMA’s Flood Map Service Center for information.

• Sign up for your community’s warning system. The Emergency Alert System (EAS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio also provide emergency alerts.

• If flash flooding is a risk in your location, then monitor potential signs, such as heavy rain.

• Learn and practice evacuation routes, shelter plans, and flash flood response.

• Gather supplies in case you have to leave immediately, or if services are cut off. Keep in mind each person’s specific needs, including medication. Don’t forget the needs of pets. Obtain extra batteries and charging devices for phones and other critical equipment.

• Purchase or renew a flood insurance policy. It typically takes up to 30 days for a policy to go into effect and can protect the life you've built. Homeowner’s policies do not cover flooding. 

• Keep important documents in a waterproof container. Create password-protected digital copies.

• Protect your property. Move valuables to higher levels. Declutter drains and gutters. Install check valves. Consider a sump pump with a battery.

IF YOU EXPERIENCE FLOOD DAMAGE, CALL SERVPRO OF SPRING/TOMBALL AT (281) 374-6454! 

We are open 24/7/365, even on holidays!

Do You Struggle With Bad Odor In Your Home?

5/14/2019 (Permalink)

As experts in deodorization, SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball is trained to identify and eliminate offensive odors. These odors can come from a number of sources both inside and outside a structure, including fire damage!

SERVPRO teaches IICRC technical classes in the proper removal of odors. Masking and other shortcuts don't work when your odor problem is serious or persistent.

We have the training and equipment to identify and eliminate these offensive odors. By identifying the cause of the odor, and determining the conditions where it contacts surfaces, the odor can often be removed over time without a trace. Our technicians have access to several odor removal products capable of penetrating surfaces to neutralize an unpleasant odor thoroughly.

The science of identifying and eliminating odors can be a tricky thing, so give us a call at (281) 374-6454, and leave the restoration to us.

IMMEDIATE Steps to be Taken After Storm Damage!!

4/25/2019 (Permalink)

Storm damage can occur at any time and can cause an immense amount of harm to your home. Heavy rains can cause flooding and powerful winds can cause roof damage and downed trees on your property. Some post-storm damage can create safety and health hazards as well, so having a strategy to deal with damage will help you to be ready to take steps immediately after the storm.

Take Safety Precautions

Heavy winds and rain can create physical hazards such as collapsed roofing materials, window damage, collapsed walls or standing water in the basement or home interior. In addition, moisture can soak into furniture, carpeting, and building materials making the perfect environment for mold growth that can cause health issues. Shut off the main gas line if you smell gas. Beware of broken glass, exposed nails, and other sharp objects on the property. Contact SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball at (281) 374-6454 to extract the water and repair your home. We even have climate controlled storage units for your belongings!

Contact Your Insurance Company

Contact your insurance agent to notify them about the damage to your home immediately. The company will send out an adjuster to determine the extent of the damage so that payment for repairs can be made.

Contact A Restoration Company

At SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball, we specialize in mitigation and restoration. We have crews on call 24/7/365 and we will come out to your home or business immediately! Call us today at (281) 374-6454.

When a storm-related disaster strikes, it may seem overwhelming, but these steps can help you to begin the process of restoring your home, and your life, to normal. At SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball, we provide 24-hour emergency disaster service. We specialize in the mitigation and restoration of homes and businesses that have suffered small or large loss from water, flooding, wind, storm, fire damage, and smoke disaster.

Why are Fire Alarms Important?

4/17/2019 (Permalink)

Smoke alarms are very important!

According to the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA), three of every five home fire deaths results from fires in homes with no smoke alarms (38%) or no working smoke alarms (21%). A majority of fatal fires happen when families are asleep because occupants are unaware of the fire until there is not adequate time to escape. A smoke alarm stands guard around the clock, and when it first senses smoke, it sounds a shrill alarm. All in all, smoke alarms are crucial elements in the early detection of fires. If you have not checked your smoke alarm in years or several months check out these statistics from the NFPA. 

Click this link The Smoke Alarm Effect

If you acquire fire or smoke damage, don't hesitate to call SERVPRO Spring/Tomball at (281) 374-6454. We are always here to help!

MUD BUG BASH!!!

4/17/2019 (Permalink)

We want to give a huge THANK YOU to everyone that came out to our 9th Annual Mud Bug Bash! We hope you really enjoyed the experience and we are more than thankful that you attended our event.

This year we kept the crowd entertained with a live band, a photo booth, family games, and a bounce house for the kids! 

We hope that you were able to eat all the crawfish, corn, potatoes, sausage, and shrimp that you possibly could and left with a full stomach.

We truly appreciate your support. Please let us know if you have any questions.   

Three Categories of Water Damage

4/5/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage is a serious issue! Don't hesitate to call us anytime, any day at (281)374-6454!

A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage in an affected area as well as increase the cost of repairs. According to IICRC Standard and Reference Guide for Professional Water Damage Restoration, there are three categories of water that cause damage in buildings.

Category 1 Water – That which is clean at the releasing source and does not pose a hazard if consumed by humans. Category 1 water may become progressively contaminated as it mixes with soils on or within floor coverings or building assemblies (walls, decking, subflooring). Time and temperature, which promote the growth and amplification of microorganisms in water can cause Category 1 water to degrade. Examples: burst water pipes, failed supply lines on appliances, vertically falling rainwater.

Category 2 Water – That which begins with some degree of contamination and could cause sickness or discomfort if consumed by humans. As with Category 1 water, time and temperature can cause Category 2 water to become progressively more contaminated.

Category 3 Water – That which is highly contaminated and could cause death or serious illness if consumed by humans. Examples: sewage, rising flood water, ground surface water flowing horizontally into homes. There are two ways in which water enters a building as a result of wind storm damage.

The information provided by: http://www.IICRC.org/the-basics-water-damage-restoration-training-a-23.html

If you experience any type of water damage, give us a call at (281)374-6454!!

Emergency Ready Profiles

4/5/2019 (Permalink)

EMERGENCY READY PROFILE(ERP)!!

What is an ERP you ask? 

Well, an ERP is an Emergency Ready Profile that we make pertaining to the layout of your commercial building. ERP's are used in circumstances where a disaster has occurred and you contact us to come out and perform mitigation services. An ERP will help business' save time and money. This profile creates a less stressful manner of dealing with the disaster. 

An ERP will contain the following:

• A No Cost assessment of your facility.
• A Concise Profile Documentation which contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
• Provides Facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas, and priority contact information.
• Identifies the line of command for authorizing work to begin and authorization during the working process.

With this profile, SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball will have a complete layout of your building to be fully prepared for any disaster or incident strike!!

Don't let our first exposure to your building be during a disaster response. If we become familiar with your property now, we can get started with mitigation faster and get your business up to pace as quickly as possible.

If you have any questions or are interested in an Emergency Ready Profile being done for your commercial building, please give us a call at 281-374-6454. 

CALL US TODAY TO GET STARTED!!

FREE CE CLASS EVERY MONTH!!!

4/1/2019 (Permalink)

FREE CE CLASSES!!

Are you in need of CE Credit Hours?

LUCKILY we host Continuing Education Courses every month right here at our facility! Each course is taught by either the Owners of our Franchise or one of our Production Managers.

Join us on April 12,2019 for our next CE Class--this course will cover: Ethics and it is 3 hours long--from 1pm to 4pm. Following the class, we will be hosting our 9th annual Mud Bug Bash and you are invited!! Joins us for Live music and all the crawfish, shrimp, and sausage you can eat!

All classes are free of charge and include drinks and light snacks. We handle all of the paperwork and get your certificate out to you as soon as possible. If you would like to RSVP please contact us at the information provided below.

Please contact Samantha Love(marketing representative) at the information below if you have any questions regarding the CE Classes or if you are interested in sending an RSVP:

Email: smr@SERVPROspringtomball.com

Cell: 281-804-8172

OR

Jack Goodroe (HR Generalist)

Email: jack.goodroe@SERVPROspringtomball.com

Phone: 281-374-6454

24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

3/27/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball provides 24-hour fire and water damage restoration service in Spring/Tomball and surrounding Houston areas.

SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage and increase the cost of the repairs needed.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - (281) 374-6454

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball has specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball

SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Does Your Home Have a Mold Problem?

3/27/2019 (Permalink)

In Houston and surrounding areas, mold can spread through a home in as little as 48 hours.

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – (281)374-6454

Satisfied SERVPRO Customers!

3/1/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball is here to help YOU 24/7, 365 days a year!

We strive every day to ensure that our quality of service is up to the highest standard and we are always pleased to get positive feedback from our happy customers!

Here are some recent quotes from real customers who were satisfied with our services:

"Great level of expertise & professionalism. If you have water, fire, catastrophic loss, these are the people to call, they get you back where you were before. ...just "Like it never even happened" !! :)" -Ianussy L.P. Badgley

"pleased with the fact that when I needed them they came out immediately and took care of the problem without leaving a big mess behind. I went on a recommendation and was very pleased with the work. Thank you SERVPRO for being there when I needed you" -Sever-foster Perrie

"Once they were onsite we no longer had to worry... they came, they saw, they conquered our water problem..." -Mary M. Kinney

If you experience water damage, fire damage, or mold in your home or office call SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball at (281) 374-6454. We are here to help and care for not only your home or office but for you as an individual. We are a family owned business and know that each job is not simply a job, but is someone allowing us to come into their lives during a very stressful event. Our ultimate goal is to help make it a little less stressful on you.

Be Prepared for Storms

3/1/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball at (281)374-6454. We are here to help YOU 24/7, 365 days a year!

You may need to survive on your own after an emergency. This means having your own food, water, and other supplies in sufficient quantity to last for at least 72 hours. Local officials and relief workers will be on the scene after a disaster but they cannot reach everyone immediately. You could get help in hours, or it might take days. Depending on the nature of the disaster, road conditions may prevent help from arriving in a timely manner. 

Additionally, basic services such as electricity, gas, water, sewage treatment, and telephones may be cut off for days or even weeks. You should prepare a supplies kit that should contain items to help you manage during these outages.

Be prepared for a power outage by keeping necessary items centrally located in your home. Take the time to ensure that everyone in your family is aware of the "kit." Periodically check your kit to see that batteries operate properly. The following is a list of items that are suggested to keep on hand:

1.     Flashlights for each family member

2.     Battery-operated radio and clock

3.     Extra batteries

4.     Containers of bottled water

5.     Canned, freeze-dried or dehydrated food, powdered milk, baby supplies for infants

6.     Non-electric can opener

7.     List of important phone numbers

8.     First-aid kit

Following a disaster, there may be power outages that could last for several days. Stock canned foods, dry mixes and other staples that do not require refrigeration, cooking, water or special preparation. Be sure to include a manual can opener and eating utensils. The following items are suggested when selecting emergency food supplies, you may already have many of these on hand.

•Store at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food.

•Choose foods your family will eat.

•Remember any special dietary needs.

•Avoid foods that will make you thirsty.

•Choose salt-free crackers, whole grain cereals and canned foods with high liquid content.

•Ready-to-eat canned meats, fruits, vegetables, and a can opener

•Protein or fruit bars

•Dry cereal or granola

•Peanut butter

•Dried fruit

•Nuts

•Crackers

•Canned juices

•Non-perishable pasteurized milk

•High energy foods

•Vitamins

•Food for infants

•Comfort/stress foods

Always be prepared for the worst! Once the storm passes, SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball will be there immediately to assist you in any way that we possibly can.

When A Flood Hits, Act Fast!!

3/1/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball is here to help you 24/7, 365 days a year!

Always be prepared for flooding events! We all know that Houston has had some major flooding issues these past few years. SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball wants to ensure that you stay safe by being prepared!

Watch for Pooling Water 

Look for places around your property where water tends to create pools, then channel it away from buildings. Make sure gutters and downspouts are clear of debris and are directing water as intended.

Maintain Sump Pump 

If you have a sump pump, check to be sure it is operational before water starts rising. You may find you need a back-up generator to ensure your pump works when you need it most. Contact your insurance agent to add coverage in case your sump pump fails. 

Raise Storage Goods 

Use shelving and/or pallets to keep storage items off the floor to reduce the impact of small floods. In many situations, raising boxes just a few inches will be enough to keep storage goods above the water line. 

Cut Power if Necessary 

As rising water approaches the level of electrical outlets, you risk having a live current flow through all the water. Cut the power if you can but do so safely without standing in water. Otherwise, evacuate immediately and contact an electrician to cut the power before you go back in for recovery.

Keep Storm Drains Clear

If you see water pooling around a storm drain in your neighborhood, the drain may be clogged with debris. Clearing the debris will help keep the water flowing away from your property.

Consider Flood Insurance

Homeowners insurance will not cover floods; you must purchase a separate policy for flood protection. When all else fails, flood insurance will provide you with the means to respond to a catastrophic flooding event.

Be Aware on the Road 

Be careful when driving during storms, especially when you hear of flash flood watches and warnings. Never drive into a fully submerged roadway. The water surface will be at the same level as the pavement you can see. This view will deceive you into thinking the water is shallow because you cannot see how the road dips under the surface. 

Act Fast 

When a flood happens, you need to act fast to dry out any wet items, particularly structural materials like walls and flooring. Call SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball at (281) 374-6454 to extract water and mitigate any mold growth. Our franchise professionals have the training and experience to make flood damage “Like it never even happened.” 

MARCH CE CLASS!

3/1/2019 (Permalink)

Join SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball for our FREE CE Courses!

Are you in need of CE Credit Hours?

LUCKILY we host Continuing Education Courses every month right here at our facility! Each course is taught by either the Owners of our Franchise or one of our Production Managers.

Join us on March 21st, 2019, for our FREE CE CLASS; Restoring Contaminated Buildings AND Cleaning and Restoring Damaged Content.

All classes are free of charge and include drinks and light snacks. We handle all of the paperwork and get your certificate out to you as soon as possible. If you would like to RSVP please contact us at the information provided below.

Please contact Samantha Love (marketing representative) at the information below if you have any questions regarding the CE Classes or if you are interested in sending an RSVP:

Email: smr@SERVPROspringtomball.com

Cell: 281-804-8172

OR

Jack Goodroe (HR Generalist)

Email: jack.goodroe@SERVPROspringtomball.com

Phone: 281-374-6454

SERVPRO Is Here For You!

3/1/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Spring and Tomball will there immediately to assist you in any way we can!

SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball professionals know just how devastating a fire can be. Fire and water damage can leave your house unsafe and unlivable. Our  crew members are trained to clean and restore your home with as little disruption as possible and as fast as possible. 

Step1: Emergency Contact

Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment

Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof Tarp Service (if needed)

Step 4: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces

Step 6: Cleaning and Repair

Step 7: Restoration

Call SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball at (281) 374-6454 to make your home or business look "Like it never even happened". We are here to assist you 24/7, 365 days a year!

Don't Let Your Pipes Freeze!!

1/25/2019 (Permalink)

Make sure your pipes don't freeze and bust during the cold weather! If they do, SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball is always here to help!

With these cold temperatures we are experiencing, it is ALWAYS a good idea to ensure that your pipes don't freeze and bust! There are several low-cost or free things you can do to protect your home, helping you save hundreds, even thousands of dollars in repair.

1. Insulate your pipes and faucets. Keep in mind that towels may not be the best long-term option.

• Pipe insulation materials, faucet covers and slip-on faucet protectors are all recommended ways to keep the pipes warm. You can find them at any local hardware stores.

2. Turn off your sprinkler system and make sure the backflow preventer is drained.

• Know where you black flow or your vacuum system for your irrigation system is. If your backflow preventer is not drained, then your pipes may break.

3. Experts say you can try your hair dryer if pipes freeze.

• Obviously, safety comes first. However, if you can locate the part of the pipe that is frozen, you can try to thaw it with a hairdryer. 

4. If you live in an old home, keep your faucet lightly dripping.

• Older homes were built to a different code. People with older homes should leave their faucets lightly dripping to prevent water from freezing inside pipes.

SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Have Questions? Call Us 24/7 –SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball (281)374-6454 

Smoke and Soot

1/23/2019 (Permalink)

Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your Home.

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke
There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting.

Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises, therefore, smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored to the specific conditions. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball at (281)374-6454

When Storms or Floods hit, SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball is ready!

1/23/2019 (Permalink)

Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 to storm or flood damage!

SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quickly with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball Today at (281)374-6454

FREE FEBRUARY CE CLASS!!!

1/16/2019 (Permalink)

Are you in need of CE Credit Hours?

LUCKILY we host Continuing Education Courses every month right here at our facility! Each course is taught by either the Owners of our Franchise or one of our Production Managers.

Join us on February 21st, for our FREE CE Class-- this courses will cover: Restorative Drying for Water Damage 9am-1pm.

All classes are free of charge and include drinks and light snacks. We handle all of the paperwork and get your certificate out to you as soon as possible. If you would like to RSVP please contact us at the information provided below.

Please contact Samantha Love (marketing representative) at the information below if you have any questions regarding the CE Classes or if you are interested in sending an RSVP:

Email: smr@SERVPROspringtomball.com

Cell: 281-804-8172

OR

Jack Goodroe (HR Generalist)

Email: jack.goodroe@SERVPROspringtomball.com

Phone: 281-374-6454

JANUARY FREE CE CLASS!

12/26/2018 (Permalink)

Are you in need of CE Credit Hours?

LUCKILY we host Continuing Education Courses every month right here at our facility! Each course is taught by either the Owners of our Franchise or one of our Production Managers.

Join us on January 17th, for our FREE CE Class-- this courses will cover: Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration 9am-1pm.

All classes are free of charge and include drinks and light snacks. We handle all of the paperwork and get your certificate out to you as soon as possible. If you would like to RSVP please contact us at the information provided below.

Please contact Makenna McNulty (marketing representative) at the information below if you have any questions regarding the CE Classes or if you are interested in sending an RSVP:

Email: smr@SERVPROspringtomball.com

Cell: 281-804-8172

OR

Jack Goodroe (HR Generalist)

Email: jack.goodroe@SERVPROspringtomball.com

Phone: 281-374-6454

Mold, Mold, Mold!!!!

12/26/2018 (Permalink)

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), there are 10 important facts that we should all know about mold. 

1. Potential health effects
2. There is no practical way to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment; the way to control indoor mold growth is to control moisture.
3. If mold is a problem in your home or school, you must clean up the mold and eliminate sources of moisture.
4. Fix the source of the water problem or leak to prevent mold growth.
5. Reduce indoor humidity (to 30-60%) to decrease mold growth by:
   • Venting bathrooms, dryers and other moisture-generating sources to the outside
   • Using air conditioners and de-humidifiers
   • Increasing ventilation
   • Using exhaust fans whenever cooking, dishwashing and cleaning
6. Clean and dry any damp or wet building materials and furnishings within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth.
7. Clean mold off hard surfaces with water and detergent, and dry completely. Absorbent materials such as ceiling tiles, that are moldy, may need to be replaced.
8. Prevent condensation: Reduce the potential for condensation on cold surfaces (i.e., windows, piping, exterior walls, roof, or floors) by adding insulation.
9. In areas where there is a perpetual moisture problem, do not install carpeting (i.e., by drinking fountains, by classroom sinks, or on concrete floors with leaks or frequent condensation).
10. Molds can be found almost anywhere; they can grow on virtually any substance, providing moisture is present. There are molds that can grow on wood, paper, carpet, and foods.

About us!

11/27/2018 (Permalink)

The mission of SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball is three-fold. Through responsive, reliable and courteous professional care and service, back by certified training, we will:

• Provide clients with the unique opportunity to save costs through restoration versus replacement while providing a Turnkey Solution.
• Give homeowners the chance to save precious memories and ensure commercial clients ability to minimize revenue business interruptions, and 
• Enable clients to enjoy living in a clean and healthy environment whether in the workspace or in the comfort of their own home. 

SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball has been operating as an on-going company under the ownership of Anthony Scott since December of 2003. In July of 2008, Robert J. Sells came on board. 

Spring and Tomball are where we call home. We believe in community involvement and feel as though we need to give back to the community that has given so much to our business. 

Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree

11/20/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball participated in the 53rd Annual Tomball Holiday Parade, presented by the Greater Tomball Area Chamber of Commerce. Our employees had a fun time setting up and decorating the float but had an even better time in the parade, Rockin' Around the Christmas tree and listening to Christmas music while waving to the large parade crowds!

The parade started at Main Street and Elm and moved west on Main Street, through the heart of Tomball. This Holiday Parade brought 2 miles of smiles down Main Street for the Tomball Community!

Happy Holidays from everyone here at SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball! 

Mold Damage

10/31/2018 (Permalink)

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 281-374-6454

IICRC Certified!

10/30/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

IICRC Certified Firms must

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.

• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.

• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.

• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.

• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.

Faster to your Water Damage!

10/30/2018 (Permalink)

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.  SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 281-374-6454

Water Damage Timeline!

10/30/2018 (Permalink)

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

• Drywall begins to swell and break down.
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
• Furniture begins to swell and crack.
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
• A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
• Metal begins to rust and corrode.
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
• Paint begins to blister.
• Wood flooring swells and warps.
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

• Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
• Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

When Storms or Floods hit Houston, SERVPRO is ready!

10/30/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained, and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Houston, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 281-374-6454

Why SERVPRO Spring/Tomball?

10/29/2018 (Permalink)

Why should you choose SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball to do Water/Fire Restoration at your home or company?

SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

Storm Tips and Guidelines

10/22/2018 (Permalink)

Follow these tips to help you be prepared for a storm and to keep you safe during a storm. 

• Always keep a battery-powered radio in your home so that you can tune to radio stations if you lose electricity. Check and change the batteries frequently.
  
  
• Keep a flashlight in an easily accessible spot on every floor of your home. Check the batteries monthly, and replace them as needed.
  
  
• Keep a supply of candles on hand for power failures.
  
  
• As a safety precaution before leaving the house on vacation, unplug all electrical appliances except for those lights connected to automatic timers.
  
  
• If you live in a storm-prone area, nail down roof shingles or use adequate adhesive to keep them from blowing off in a violent wind.
  
  
• Don't go out during a hurricane unless you have to; however, if flooding threatens, seek high ground, and follow the instructions of civil defense personnel.
  
  
• When a major storm is imminent, close shutters, board windows, or tape the inside of larger panes with an "X" along the full length of their diagonals. Even a light material like masking tape may give the glass the extra margin of strength it needs to resist cracking.

2019 CE Course Schedule

10/22/2018 (Permalink)

Needing Continuing Education Credits in the upcoming year?? We have our 2019 Continuing Education Class Schedule ready and we welcome you to join us at any of these courses. We hold classes every month to give you a chance to make it out!

The classes are FREE to the public, we have great instructors and light snacks and drinks are provided. COME AND JOIN US!!!!!

If you see any particular course that you are needing, just shoot us an email to smr@SERVPROspringtomball.com OR jack.goodroe@SERVPROspringtomball.com

and we will add you to the list in advance!

**ALSO if you have any questions regarding our Continuing Education Courses, please don't hesitate to ask. We are here to answer questions and help make the process easier for you!

Thanksgiving Cooking Safety Tips!

10/16/2018 (Permalink)

Thanksgiving is the leading day for home cooking fires but with preparation and common sense, many home cooking fires can be avoided. 

• Do not leave stoves, ovens, and ranges unattended—stay in the kitchen so you can keep your eyes on the food.
• Make sure to keep children away from the stove as the steam or splash from the food on the stove can cause serious burns.
• Roll up your sleeves or wear short sleeves while cooking so your clothes do not start on fire.
• Keep pot holders and food wrappers away from heat sources while cooking.
• After your guests leave, be sure all cooking appliances are off and all candles are blown out.
• Call 9-1-1 immediately if an oven fire occurs!
• Fry outdoors, away from buildings and other combustible items. Never use a fryer indoors. Keep children and pets away while frying.
• Follow instructions on what size turkey should be used, how it should be cooked and what type of oil to use.

Follow these simple steps in keeping safety in your kitchen during the holidays!

From our team here at SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball, we wish you all a Merry Christmas, Happy Holiday and a very Happy New Year!

Paces4Pink!

10/9/2018 (Permalink)

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an annual international health campaign organized by major breast cancer charities every October to increase awareness of the disease and to raise funds for research into its cause, prevention, diagnosis, treatment and cure.

• One in eight women in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime.
• Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women.
• Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death among women.
• Each year it is estimated that over 252,710 women in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer and more than 40,500 will die.

This year SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball had forty participants in the 6th Annual Paces4Pink Breast Cancer Awareness Event! Paces4Pink, formerly Sherine's Stride, was designed to raise awareness of breast cancer and bring families, friends, and guests together for support. Sherine Amanollahi was a Tomball Police Dispatcher who lost her  fight against breast cancer in 20

Emergency Ready Profile

10/9/2018 (Permalink)

The Best Way to Reduce Business Interruption Following a Disaster is to Plan For it NOW.

As many of 50% of businesses may never recover following a disaster, according to the latest industry research. Of the businesses the survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. 

By developing a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan for action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business. 

The SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile is a startup approach that provides the critical information needed to begin mitigation and recovery services. It is designed to serve as a quick reference of important building and contact information.

OCTOBER CE CLASS!

10/1/2018 (Permalink)

Are you in need of CE Credit Hours?

LUCKILY we host Continuing Education Courses every month right here at our facility! Each course is taught by either the Owners of our Franchise or one of our Production Managers.

Join us on October 18, 2018, for our FREE CE CLASS; Restorative Drying of Water Damage from 9am-1pm

All classes are free of charge and include drinks and light snacks. We handle all of the paperwork and get your certificate out to you as soon as possible. If you would like to RSVP please contact us at the information provided below.

Please contact Makenna McNulty(marketing representative) at the information below if you have any questions regarding the CE Classes or if you are interested in sending an RSVP:

Email: smr@SERVPROspringtomball.com

Cell: 281-804-8172

OR

Jack Goodroe (HR Generalist)

Email: jack.goodroe@SERVPROspringtomball.com

Phone: 281-374-6454

Pet Fire Safety

8/24/2018 (Permalink)

We want to help you protect your pets from potential danger. 

• The best way to protect your pets from the effects of a fire is to include them in your family plan. This includes having their own disaster supplies kit as well as arranging in advance for a safe place for them to stay if you need to leave your home.

• When you practice your escape plan, practice taking your pets with you. Train them to come to you when you call.

• In the event of a disaster, if you must evacuate, the most important thing you can do to protect your pets is to evacuate them, too. But remember: never delay escape or endanger yourself or family to rescue a family pet.

• Keep pets near entrances when you are away from home. Keep collars on pets and leashes close by in case firefighters need to rescue your pet. When leaving pets home alone, keep them in areas or rooms near entrances where firefighters can easily find them.

PACES4PINK 2018

8/8/2018 (Permalink)

This October, pink warriors can run or walk a bit closer to home to fight breast cancer as the City of Tomball again stages its annual Paces4Pink on Saturday, October 6th, throughout the historic downtown district. Paces4Pink (formerly "Sherine's Stride") is a 5K certified run and 1-mile family walk through old Tomball to benefit breast cancer research and awareness. Funds raised through this event go to local non-profit, TOMAGWA to provide free breast cancer screenings. Please feel free to invite all friends and family to this great event!

Storm tips for Pets

8/8/2018 (Permalink)

How do you handle dog fear and anxiety related to storms?

Here are eight tips to calm your dog during a storm: 

Stay home with your Dog

For a dog who already fears thunderstorms, being alone will only worsen the anxiety. If bad weather is in the forecast, try to be home or have someone stay with your dog during the storm.

Create Calmness

Give your dog the comfort and attention she/he needs to calm her anxiety. An anxious dog is unable to learn due to being overly stimulated and emotional, which means comforting is not rewarding the fear. Try a calming massage to help your dog relax during the storm.

Provide Distractions

If a dog is punished or ignored during a frightening event, it’s likely to worsen the anxiety. Instead, offer a positive stimulus, such as gentle petting, to distract and calm your dog. If your dog will still engage, try a game of indoor fetch, tug, or offer a high-value chew.

Offer a Safe Place

Place your dog’s crate and/or bed in the most sound-proof room of your home. A crate is a natural, psychological defense for dogs and can have an incredible influence on their comfort level. It’s also helpful to close the blinds to shelter your dog from the visual stimulation of a storm.

SEPTEMBER CE CLASS!!!!

7/27/2018 (Permalink)

Are you in need of CE Credit Hours?

LUCKILY we host Continuing Education Courses every month right here at our facility! Each course is taught by either the Owners of our Franchise or one of our Production Managers.

Join us on September 20, 2018, for our 2 FREE CE Class-- these courses will cover: Mitigation Awareness  & Response Seminar from 9am-11am and Restoring Contaminated Buildings from 11am-1pm. These will be 2 different courses.

All classes are free of charge and include drinks and light snacks. We handle all of the paper work and get your certificate out to you as soon as possible. If you would like to RSVP please contact us at the information provided below.

Please contact Makenna McNulty(marketing representative) at the information below if you have any questions regarding the CE Classes or if you are interested in sending an RSVP:

Email: smr@SERVPROspringtomball.com

Cell: 281-804-8172

OR

Jack Goodroe (HR Generalist)

Email: jack.goodroe@SERVPROspringtomball.com

Phone: 281-374-6454

Clean, Grey, and Dirty Water

6/29/2018 (Permalink)

Do you know the difference between clean, grey, and dirty water??

What is Clean Water?

Clean water is water that comes from your faucet or showerhead that you can drink safely. It is also considered rainwater or snowmelt. In regards to water damage to your home, it can come from a broken water line, a busted toilet tank, a leaky washer or refrigerator, or rain or snowmelt entering your home. While clean water flooding your floors may not cause an immediate health risk, it can quickly evolve into the gray water after prolonged contact with building surfaces, material, and items. This can happen within 48 hours which is why it is important to call SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball as soon as possible after a flood or water damage.

What is Gray Water?

Gray water is water that may contain chemicals or contaminants that may be harmful to your health. Gray water can come from the shower and sink drains, the washer drain, the dishwasher drain, and aquariums. Gray water can cause even more damage than clean water and can evolve into black water within 48 hours causing even further damage and health risks. 

What is Black Water?

Blackwater is contaminated water from floodwaters and sewage waters. Blackwater can come from a flooded river or a backed up toilet or a backed up sewage line in your home. Blackwater can contain all types of harmful contaminants like bacteria, mold, and viruses that can be extremely harmful to humans. Blackwater can cause diseases and illnesses like cholera, hepatitis, and norovirus. Blackwater can be very dangerous to ones' health and it is imperative to call a professional cleanup team like SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball immediately. If the water damage from Blackwater isn't professionally removed, dried out and cleaned, infections and illnesses can occur from microbes in the air and dust. That is why it is crucial that you hire professionals that have the right tools and processes to ensure a thorough cleanup. 

The 4th of July!!

6/29/2018 (Permalink)

The 4th of July is right around the corner which means FIREWORKS! Please keep these tip in mind when you're popping Fireworks!

Firework Safety Tips

• Follow the directions on all fireworks and don't use them for anything other than what they're intended for.
• Don't attempt to alter or combine fireworks products.
• Never use homemade fireworks.
• Report illegal explosives to the nearest fire or police department.
• When lighting fireworks, always have water handy. A hose is best, but a bucket will suffice.
• Spectators should remain a safe distance from the fireworks being lit.
• Whoever lights the fireworks must be sober, wear safety glasses, and keep clothing well away from the flame when lighting.
• Only light fireworks outdoors on a smooth, flat surface, away from all flammable materials including dry leaves and paper.
• Never try to relight fireworks that appear to be duds. Wait up to 20 minutes for a possible delayed ignition. Then if nothing happens, soak the firework in a bucket of water and dispose of it.
• Dispose of all firework materials by first soaking them in water before putting them in the trash.
• Keep sparklers away from clothing and other flammable materials.

We hope everyone has a fun and SAFE 4th of July!!

City of Tomball Kid Club

6/19/2018 (Permalink)

Kids Club, Tomball's summer program, has recently partnered with the Houston Food Bank to bring free meals to participating children through the Backpack Buddy and Kids Cafe programs. During the summer months, access to free school meals becomes limited, adding strain to families who already struggle to put food on the table. Kids Club will be providing nutritious, child-friendly food to children to take home over the weekend through a food pantry at Lone-Star Community College, as well as make hot breakfast and lunch served twice a week for the attendees at the Tomball Community Center. 

With that being said, SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball loves our Community and we want to do everything we can to give back and help out the ones in need. 

FREE CE COURSE- Property Fire Damage!

6/19/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Spring/Tomball will be hosting a 4 hour Class on July 19th, 2018. This class is over Property Fire Damage Restoration! 

So what will this course cover?

This course has been specifically designed to teach and explain the special procedures used by professionals in mitigating and restoring fire damage claims for the insured. The purpose of the course is to provide attendees with a better understanding of the work performed by the mitigation vendor at fire damage work sites.

Classroom Credit= 4 hours

 Light Drinks and Snacks will be provided throughout the class.

TIME- 9am-1pm

DATE- July 19, 2018

LOCATION- SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball- 33550 Pinehurst Loop Magnolia, TX 77355

FOR RESERVATIONS please call 281-374-6454 or Email us at- smr@SERVPROspringtomball.com OR jack.goodroe@SERVPROspringtomball.com

Hurricane Season is here!!!

6/1/2018 (Permalink)

Hurricane Season is here and will be until around Early November as expected.

Let's talk FACTS: Most Hurricanes rage harmlessly in the sea without ever making landfall--but when they do you should be SERVPRO Ready!

Hurricanes cause billions of dollars worth of destruction EVERY YEAR. They can cause over 11,000 deaths, over 231 hurricane landfills absorbing homes, your local coffee shop and even a mall.

Be prepared! Here are some safety tips during Hurricane Season:

1.)  Stay Indoors

2.)  Unplug Appliances

3.)  Get a battery operated radio to listen to updates on the weather

4.)  Have a first aid kit handy

5.)  Stay together as a community, because there is nothing more powerful than a community that rebuilds together!

If flood waters reach into your home do as much as you can to either keep it out or get it out! Standing water, is bad water!

Stay safe, and watch the weather!

Mold Damage Tips!

5/14/2018 (Permalink)

In as little as 48 hours, mold can quickly become a problem in your home or business when there’s a water intrusion, like a roof leak or leaking water line.  SERVPRO of Spring / Tomball has the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to handle your mold problem.

Have a Mold Problem? 
Call Us Today – (281) 374-6454

If you have a mold problem in your home or business, consider the following facts:

• Significant mold growth can occur in 48-72 hours.
• Mold may present a greater risk to children, the elderly, and anyone with respiratory problems.
• A strong, musty odor may indicate hidden mold behind drywall or under carpeting.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Spring / Tomball for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

Mold Remediation Services

If you suspect that your home or business has a mold problem, SERVPRO of Spring / Tomball has the training, equipment, and expertise to handle the situation.

Fire Hazards!

5/9/2018 (Permalink)

Below are the most common Fire Hazards in your home.

• Alcohol and Fire

It's a fact that many house fires are caused by someone attempting to cook or smoke while under the influence of alcohol. 

• Candles

Candle fires happen in places like bedrooms and bathrooms where people use them as mood enhancers. Unfortunately, people can fall asleep with a candle still burning or leave the room without snuffing out the flame. Candles should NEVER be left burning unattended!

• Cooking

Many items in the kitchen can catch fire easily including pot holders, dish towels, and product packaging. Keep curtains away from the stove and clean up all spills on the stove top or near by counters.

• Electrical 

Unsafe use of electricity can be a  ticking time bomb! An electrical fire can happen at any time. Follow-up when a fuse or circuit breaker blows. Don't just reset the breaker or replace the fuse. Find out what caused the problem.

• Cigarettes

Too many fires are caused from careless disposal of smoking materials

Is your home suffering from a water disaster?

5/9/2018 (Permalink)

Why should you choose SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball for your Water Mitigation?

We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster

Immediate action is crucial when dealing with water damage. With over 1,700 U.S. and Canadian Franchise locations, we are strategically positioned to be faster to any size water emergency, so Spring/Tomball residents can expect an immediate response, day or night.

We’re Highly Trained Water Damage Specialists

We are water damage specialists who get started promptly to get your property dry and back to pre-water-damage condition. Using advanced water removal and drying equipment and scientific drying principles to get your property dried quickly, we document the drying process to validate your home or business is ready. Learn about our water damage training and certificates.

We Use Advanced Drying Equipment and Techniques

We invest in the latest technology and equipment because it helps us restore your home more quickly and to minimize cost. This equipment allows us to detect hidden moisture and extract standing water quickly and efficiently. We also utilize professional-strength cleaning, sanitizing, and deodorizing products to cleaning and sanitize the affected water damage area for your comfort and safety.

GIVE US A CALL!! 281-374-6454 

Mold Remediation Process

5/9/2018 (Permalink)

In as little as 48 hours, a minor mold issue can quickly spread through a home or business. Once you contact us, we’re dedicated to starting the remediation process quickly. This fast response lessens the mold damage, limits additional damage, and reduces the remediation cost

The Mold Remediation Process

Every mold infestation is different, from the amount of mold to the types of materials affected. Each scenario requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same.

The steps listed below illustrate our process for a “typical” mold remediation infestation:

1. Emergency Contact - (281) 374-2632
2. Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment
3. Mold Containment
4. Air Filtration
5. Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials
6. Cleaning Contents and Belongings
7. Restoration

Storm Safety Kit!

5/8/2018 (Permalink)

This spring there's already been a spate of severe weather and there'll likely be more to come as May is the peak season for tornadoes and June is the start of the hurricane season. So it's time to get packing, or updating, your to-go kit.

 Below is a basic kit that last three days, but you should tailor yours to your family's needs, especially if you have small children.

• One gallon of water per person per day, for drinking and sanitation
• Non-perishable food and a manual can opener
• A battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA weather radio with tone alert and extra batteries
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Whistle to signal for help
• Filter mask or cotton t-shirt, to help filter the air
• Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
• Plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place
• Important family documents in a waterproof container
• Items for unique family needs, such as daily prescription medications, infant formula or diapers

We want everyone to stay safe during this Hurricane Season!!

Preventing Commercial Kitchen Fires

5/7/2018 (Permalink)

While commercial kitchens are a fast, convenient way to prepare food, they can also present significant fire hazards if not properly maintained.

• Have Proper Equipment

With so many flammable ingredients in one concentrated area, you will want to take all safety precautions available to prevent a kitchen fire. Once your building has been outfitted with the proper fire protection equipment, don’t forget to schedule your regular fire alarm tests and fire extinguisher refills.

• Keep It Clean

  The majority of kitchen fires begin when flammable cooking material or byproducts, such as oil and grease, are ignited. Not only does grease build up on cooking surfaces, it can also collect bits of food and paper, increasing flammability.

• Train your staff. Even with the best preventative equipment, fires can happen and it’s important that the kitchen crew has the training to know what to do in an emergency. Have meetings and drills about fire prevention, evacuation of patrons, and how to use extinguishers. Make sure new hires are brought up to speed.

Memorial Day Safety!

5/4/2018 (Permalink)

With Memorial day coming up at the end of this month, we want to remind you of a few safety tips!

• Grill Safety- While creating delicious cookout fare, have a great potential for danger. It is very important that a lit or hot grill is never left unattended; a responsible adult should stand guard as “grillmaster” to control flames and keep children and animals away from hot surfaces. Before your first grill of the year and often during grilling season, make sure your grill ready for the job. Keep it clean of grease, inspect propane fuel lines, and position your grill away from structures, trees and high-traffic walkways. You should also take any precautions in case a flare-up or fire were to occur; keep an extinguisher nearby and make sure to know how to cut off fuel lines if you are using propane.
• Driving Safety- If you plan on drinking alcohol, designate a driver who won’t drink. Let someone know where you are going, your route and when you expect to get there. If your car gets stuck along the way, help can be sent along your predetermined route. 
• Water Safety- To prevent drowning, avoid alcohol when swimming or boating. Wear a life jacket whenever you are on a boat. Make sure young children are supervised at all times when near the beach, on a boat, or by a pool or hot tub. Don't swim alone or in bad weather. Learn to swim and teach your children to swim. We also recommend that you learn CPR in case of an emergency. 

Everyone here from SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball hope you have a fun and safe Memorial Day Weekend!

Are you prepared for a flood?

4/25/2018 (Permalink)

You can prepare for flooding in a number of ways!

• Prepare a few emergency kits
• Prepare a household flood plan
• Keep a list of emergency telephone numbers
• Check your insurance policy to see if you are covered for flood damage

If flooding is predicted, make your safety a priority and if you have time try to prepare your property:

• Secure hazardous items
• Roll up rugs, move furniture, electrical items and valuables to a higher level
• Place important personal documents, valuables and vital medical supplies into a waterproof case in an accessible location
• If you are relocating, take your pets with you if it is safe to do so. If not provide adequate food and water and move them to a safer place

Relocating to safer ground:

If rising waters threaten your home and you decide to move to a safer location, tell the police, your nearest State Emergency Service (SES) unit or your neighbors of your plans to move.

• Monitor your local radio for warnings and advice
• Pack warm clothing, essential medication, valuables and personal papers in waterproof bags along with your emergency kits.
• Raise furniture, clothing and valuables onto beds, tables and into roof space place
• Empty freezers and refrigerators, leaving doors open to avoid damage or loss if they float.
• Turn off power, water and gas and take your mobile phone
• Whether you leave or stay, put sand bags in the toilet bowl and over all laundry/bathroom drain holes to prevent sewage backflow
• Lock your home and take recommended relocation routes for your area
• Do not drive into water of unknown depth and current

Too late to leave?

• Monitor your local radio for warnings
• Get to higher ground
• Switch off electricity and gas supplies to your home
• Prepare to move vehicles, outdoor equipment, garbage, chemical and poisons to higher locations
• Prepare for the well being of pets
• Raise furniture above likely flood levels
• Check your emergency kits
• Do not allow children to play in or near floodwaters
• Avoid entering floodwaters,. if you must do so, wear solid shoes and check depth and current with a stick
• Stay away from drains, culverts and water over knee deep.
• Do not use gas or electrical appliances that have been in floodwater until checked for safety
• Do not eat food that has been in floodwaters

Review and Rate!!!

4/23/2018 (Permalink)

Did you love the work we provided for you?

Or do you have some concerns and would like us to know and take care of them?

WELL, IT MAY SEEM LIKE NOBODY USES IT-----BUT---Leaving us a review or rating on any of our three websites can help us make each and every job better one step at a time. We highly enjoy receiving reviews and ratings because of three honest reasons:

1.) We can address each customer based on their review/rating and publish it to our website!

2.) Why not make GREAT SERVICE known to others who are looking for a good company to perform work for them?

3.) It help's us is SO MANY WAYS by posting a good review for us!! And we are so incredibly grateful for them. We truly love reading the positive things people always have to say about SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball.

People don't realize these days that Reviews and Star Ratings can be SO IMPORTANT!!

So PLEASE, if you have ever used us before for services, don't ever hesitate to leave us a rating or review on the links below.

https://www.facebook.com/SERVPRO.springtomball

https://www.yelp.com/biz/SERVPRO-of-spring-tomball-tomball-2

Google us at SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball to leave a google review

Roof Leak

4/20/2018 (Permalink)

Do you know what steps to take if you notice a roof leak?

First Things First - Deal with inside the house to minimize interior damage!

In most cases, a leak will slowly pool at the ceiling until it finds an escape route. After a couple of hours, the leak will start to find multiple escape routes. To minimize your ceiling damage, find the wettest spot or a bulge in the ceiling and poke a small hole in the middle. Use a bucket to collect the draining water. 

Second Step – Locate the point of entry! 
Start with the inside, such as an attic.

Third Step – Maintain the situation until help arrives! 
Once you locate the point of entry from the inside, there are a couple of options for temporary repair such as roofing cement, roofing tape or a tarp.

Removing Mold from Carpet

4/18/2018 (Permalink)

Keeping your carpet clean can be a challenge. With the daily coming and going in and out of your home, we often track dirt, dust and other contaminants onto our carpets, despite our best efforts to keep our carpets spotless.

So what do you do if you happen to find some mold spots?

1. Upon discovering the mold, it’s important to start the process and remove mold from carpet as quickly as possible. If you can move the piece of carpeting or rug outside the house, do so.
2. Take a broom and sweep the affected area of the carpet. This will help loosen up the mold.
3. Next, vacuum the affected area of the carpet. After vacuuming, empty the contents of the vacuum bag directly into the trash.
4. Create a mixture of dishwashing liquid and water in a bucket.
5. Using a sponge, scrub the affected area of the carpet with the soapy solution you just mixed.
6. If you’re able to take the carpet outside, let it dry naturally in the sun. If the carpet is not movable, pat dry the surface using a dry towel or rag.

What to do if there is a Tornado Warning!

4/17/2018 (Permalink)

With these storms we've had latley, it's always good to know what to do in case there is a tornado around you.

4 Tip below on what to do if there is a Tornado warning in your area!

1. Figure out a safe place to ride out the storm

Do you live in a mobile home? If so, get somewhere safer. Driving in a car? Get home as quickly as you can, and if that's not possible, get to a sturdy building and take shelter.

2. Get away from windows

Regardless of where you're hunkering down, it should be as far away from windows as possible. 

3. If a tornado appears while you're on the road...

You should make every effort to find a safe building for shelter. If you can't find one, NEVER hide under an overpass. Instead, find a ditch, get down and cover your head.

4. Don't leave your home and try to drive away from a tornado

Tornadoes can shift their path, and even if you think you're directly in the line of the storm, being inside shelter is safer than being inside a car. 

Fire in your home....

4/17/2018 (Permalink)

Do you know what to do if there is a fire in your house?

4 Tips if there is a fire in your home!

1. Decide if you should fight the fire or flee.

Don't attempt to extinguish any fire if there is a threat to your safety. If the fire is small and you know how to use a fire extinguisher, you can attempt to extinguish the fire. You must note that fires can increase in size and intensity in seconds, blocking the exit path can create a dangerous atmosphere. 

2. The main priority is to get you and your family members out safely.

Your priority should be to get yourself and your family members out as quickly as possible. Please don't think of picking up your valuables. Timing is very important. 

3. If you see smoke, crawl to the nearest exit!

The toxic gases and the super heated air in the smoke makes it more dangerous. Smoke is lighter than air and so it rises above air.

4. If your clothes catch on fire, remember to STOP, DROP, and ROLL!!!

If clothes catch fire, they can spread quickly engulfing the victim in flames. 

Busted pipes - OH NO!

4/17/2018 (Permalink)

Busted pipe in your home? No worries, SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball has got you covered!

1. Stop the water

First thing, turn off the water flow when you notice a pipe has broken, even if you don’t know where the water is coming from. Once the main water switch is off, you’ll need to drain the pipes.

2. Locate the broken pipe and inspect the damage

After draining all the excess water, locate the burst pipe. Inspect the damage and consider where the pipe is located before repairing it.

3. Repair the busted pipe

Fixing a rupture or crack in non-main pipes is usually fairly straightforward, but it can become expensive depending on the mending material you choose.

4. Bring in a professional drying crew.

Give SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball a call- 281-374-6456

We will come out to your house to clean up from the water damage and make it look like it never even happened! 

MUD BUG BASH!

4/10/2018 (Permalink)

We want to give a huge THANK YOU to everyone that came out to our 8th Annual Mud Bug Bash! We hope you really enjoyed the experience and we are more than thankful that you attended our event.

This year we kept the crowd entertained with a live band, Johnny and the Convertibles, a photo booth, family games, and a bounce house for the kids! 

We hope that you were able to eat all the crawfish, corn, potatoes, sausage, and shrimp that you possibly could and left with a full stomach.

Also, SERVPRO wants to give a big shout out to Labor Now for helping with all the trash and the clean up process. 

We truly appreciate your support. Please let us know if you have any questions.   

FREE CE CLASSES EVERY MONTH!

4/9/2018 (Permalink)

Are you in need of CE Credit Hours?

LUCKILY we host Continuing Education Courses every month right here at our facility! Each course is taught by either the Owners of our Franchise or one of our Production Managers.

Join us on May 17,2018 for our next CE Class--this course will cover: Understanding Mold Restoration Ind. This course is 4 hours long--from 9am to 1pm.

All classes are free of charge and include drinks and light snacks. We handle all of the paper work and get your certificate out to you as soon as possible. If you would like to RSVP please contact us at the information provided below.

Please contact Makenna McNulty (marketing representative) at the information below if you have any questions regarding the CE Classes or if you are interested in sending an RSVP:

Email: smr@SERVPROspringtomball.com

Cell: 281-804-8172

OR

Jack Goodroe (HR Generalist)

Email: jack.goodroe@SERVPROspringtomball.com

Phone: 281-374-6454

How to Prevent House Fires

4/9/2018 (Permalink)

Listed below are four common causes for a house fire and how to avoid it!

Faulty Wiring and Outlets Are One of the Top Causes of House Fires!

• Check the electrical cords throughout your home for signs of fraying, and replace all frayed wires.
• Do not pinch or cover electrical cords with items such as rugs.
• Be aware of the capacity of your home's electrical system. Do not overload your circuits. 

Carelessness in the Kitchen May Also Lead to a House Fire!

• Never leave your pots or pans unattended on the stove.
• Keep a kitchen fire extinguisher readily available and make sure you know how to use it.
• Keep your stove and oven clean. Built up food splatter or grease can later ignite when the stove or oven is turned on.

Clothes Dryers Are Another Common Source of House Fires.

• Clean out the dryer vent regularly.
• Clean out the lint filter after each load.
• Lint may also collect under and behind your dryer, make to clean these areas regularly.

Alternative Heating Sources can Also Create a Fire Hazard

• Avoid using an older space heater, as it may not have adequate safety features compared to newer units. 
• Do not place a space heater near furniture, curtains or other objects that could easily catch fire.

Facts about Mold!

3/26/2018 (Permalink)

• Molds are fungi that can be found anywhere, inside and outside. About 1,000 species of mold can be found in the United States, with more than 100,000 known species worldwide.
• Mold growth indoors should be avoided. Problems may arise when the mold starts eating away at materials, affecting the look, smell, and possibly affecting the structural integrity of wood-framed buildings.
• When excessive moisture or water accumulates indoors, mold growth usually will occur, particularly if the moisture problem remains uncorrected. While it is impossible to eliminate all molds and mold spores, controlling moisture can control indoor mold growth.
• Molds can slowly damage building materials and furnishings. If left unchecked, mold can eventually cause structural damage to a wood framed building, weakening floors and walls as it feeds on moist wooden structural members. 

If you suspect mold is growing in your home, visit our website or gives us a call for more information! www.SERVPROspringtomball.com or (281) 374-6454

Mold in your home

3/22/2018 (Permalink)

Mold can get in your home through vents, doors, windows, and heating/air conditioning units. Also, mold can grow in places with a lot of moisture such as around leaks in the ceiling, pipes, windows, or where there was some flooding.

4 tips on how you can control mold growth in your home:

1. Controlling the humidity levels in your home. Levels should be no higher than 50%. An air conditioner or dehumidifier will help you keep the level low.
2. Use exhaust fans which vent outside your house in the kitchen and bathroom. Make sure your dryer vents outside your home as well.
3. Immediately fix leaking windows, doors, and ceiling.
4. Thoroughly cleaning up within 24-48 hours after a flood.

Mold growth can have a musty smell and be different colors. If you can see or smell the mold in your home, your health can be at risk.

Tips to avoid water damage to your home!!

3/22/2018 (Permalink)

 14,000 homeowners rush to deal with water leak emergencies every day- don't let it be you!

Follows these tips to avoid water damage in your house!

1. Disconnect your water hose during a freeze. Standing water in a hose may freeze back into the pipe and create an ice block that may bust your pipes and create damage to walls and floors. 
2. Check and maintain your appliances regularly for leaks.
3. Check your water pressure. If the pressure is too high, pipes and hoses may fail.
4. Make sure your gutters and downspouts are cleaned out.
5. Investigate leaks right away and fix immediately.
6. Know the location of your water main. If you leave your house for an extended amount of time, shut it off to avoid leaks while you are gone.
7. Monitor your water bill. Sometimes, the only way to realize you have a leak is by taking a good look at your water bill. If your usage jumps significantly from one month to the next without explanation then you may have a leak somewhere. 

CE Class & 8th Annual Mud Bug Bash!!!!

3/19/2018 (Permalink)

Please come out and join us for our CE Class on April 6th beginning at 1 pm right here at our facility. The class will be hosted by SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball and will cover Ethics. This class will run until 4 pm and is worth 3 credits.

Following after the CE Ethics Class, will be our 8t Annual Mud Bug Bash! It'll go just about all night long, so we hope that you come with hungry belly's and a dancing leg. We will have live music and entertainment, a photo booth, all the craw fish, corn and potatoes you can eat!! And for those of you that aren't too fond of craw fish, we will also be serving sausage and shrimp. So come out, dig in and have a good time ON US!!

We sure hope to see you out there!

To RSVP please call us at 281-374-6454 or send us an email at: jack.goodroe@SERVPROspringtomball.com OR ashley.baker@SERVPROspringtomball.com

8 Cooking Safety Tips for the Holidays

1/2/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Spring/Tomball Please Call 281-374-6454

During the holidays, everybody enjoys a nice meal with their families. Baking a ham, green bean casserole, dressing, and cranberry sauce--YUMM!

When cooking these meals, be sure to be cautious of oven and stove top safety.

1.) Keep spills cleaned up on and around your stove top.

2.) Keep and eye on your pans in the oven. Always set a timer.

3.) Keep a fire extinguisher close by.

5.) Be sure your smoke detector has good batteries in place.

6.) DO NOT throw water on a grease fire.

7.) Keep your body safe guarded at all times by wearing proper safety gloves or mitts.

8.) Keep children and pets away from ovens and stove-tops in use.

Follow these simple steps in keeping safety in your kitchen during the holidays!

From our team here at SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball, we wish you all a Merry Christmas, Happy Holiday and a very Happy New Year!

10 Tips to be Storm Ready

12/19/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Spring/Tomball Please Call 281-374-6454

If for any reason or chance, you and your family are unable to make it out of your home or town when a storm is coming, there are ways to feel and be Storm Ready. Follow the steps below to feel better prepared when a storm hits:

1.) Have a home emergency plan.

-Know all of your safe exit points of the home.

-What to do with pets.

-Keep on hand at least 2 Emergency Kits.

-Let your neighbors know you are still at the home.

2.) Stock up on the easy essential foods, water, toiletries, candles, lighters and flashlights.

-Have plenty of blankets and pillows handy.

3.)   Keep some games and toys for the children handy--Waiting for the storm to pass over might actually get boring in some cases.

4.) Secure loose things around and on your property.

5.) Make sure there are no branches hanging over your home or garage.

6.) Stay in doors when the storm is upon you.

7.) Ensure your home, contents and car insurance is adequate and current.

8.) Learn how to safely turn off your power, water and gas.

9.) Keep a battery powered radio nearby so you can keep up with warnings and updates on the storm.

10.) Keep water containers, a camping stove and fuel safely on-hand

Stay safe and be somewhat prepared for when a storm hits with these safety and life tips.

THE TREE'S ON FIRE!!!!!

12/19/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Spring/Tomball Please Call 281-374-6454

You go out with your family and pick out the BIGGEST, MOST BEAUTIFUL Christmas Tree that you all have ever seen. You take it home and decorate it as a family. That tree looks AMAZING!!!!! Every day that you walk through your living room, you admire what a beautiful tree you have.

Well wouldn't you prefer to keep that tree and your home safe?? I don't know about you, but all of the time and effort and love I would have for that Christmas Tree could be wasted effort if you don't keep it nice and hydrated.

Keep in mind that Christmas Trees cause over $17.5 million in property damages each year.

So remember, keep your Christmas trees hydrated and your holidays happy!

From our team here at SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball, we wish you all a Merry Christmas, Happy Holiday and a very Happy New Year!

https://www.facebook.com/SERVPRO.springtomball/

Beware of Candle Flames

11/7/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Spring/Tomball Please Call 281-374-6454

Candles may be pretty to look at but they are a cause of home fires and home fire deaths. According to the National Candle Association, 70% of households in the United States use candles. Most people don’t see candles as a major fire hazard, but according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) from 1983-1998 candles accounted for 8,690 fires, 104 deaths, 974 injuries and an estimated $126 million in property damage. Between 2001-2002 an estimated 18,000 fires were started by candles with 130 deaths, 1350 injuries and $333 million in property damage.

DON’T GET BURNED! FOLLOW THESE SAFETY TIPS!

• Use candles only with constant adult supervision
• Never leave a candle burning!
• Keep candles away from items that can catch fire, such as Christmas trees, clothing, paper or curtains
• Place candles and candleholders on a secure piece of furniture. Make sure candleholders are non-combustible and large enough to collect the dripping wax.
• Do not place candles in windows where blinds or curtains can close over them
• Keep wicks trimmed to 1/4 inch and extinguish candles when they burn to within 2 inches of the holder
• Keep candles and all open flames away from flammable liquids
Do not use candles in places where they can be knocked over by children or pets
• Always have a working smoke alarm!

Cleaning Mold from Tiles & Grout

11/7/2017 (Permalink)

For more information please call SERVPRO® of Spring/Tomball 281-374-6454

Removing Mold from Tiles and Grout can be a lengthy process, but we do our best to get it taken care of in the proper steps.

First, begin by scrubbing the mold off the tiles and grout. You should use a scrubbing brush along with a household cleaning product or mold killing product. There are also commercial tile or grout cleaners you can buy.

After this you'll probably find there is still mold stains left on the grout. You can use bleach to fade these stains away. Before you use the bleach you should spot test it to make sure that it won't discolor your tiles. You should also wear gloves to protect your hands from the bleach.

Apply the bleach to the grout and leave it sit for about 10 minutes. Instead of chlorine bleach you can use hydrogen peroxide if you like. Another alternative is to use baking soda. Mix it with water to create a paste and then use a toothbrush to scrub it onto the grout.

If you find the stain remains on the grout after bleaching then repeat the process. Give it some time and this should fade away the mold stains on the grout.

What You Should Know About Mold

10/27/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Spring/Tomball Please Call 281-374-6454

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), their are 10 things we should all know about mold. 

1. Potential health effects
2. There is no practical way to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment; the way to control indoor mold growth is to control moisture.
3. If mold is a problem in your home or school, you must clean up the mold and eliminate sources of moisture.
4. Fix the source of the water problem or leak to prevent mold growth.
5. Reduce indoor humidity (to 30-60%) to decrease mold growth by:
   • Venting bathrooms, dryers and other moisture-generating sources to the outside
   • Using air conditioners and de-humidifiers
   • Increasing ventilation
   • Using exhaust fans whenever cooking, dishwashing and cleaning
6. Clean and dry any damp or wet building materials and furnishings within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth.
7. Clean mold off hard surfaces with water and detergent, and dry completely. Absorbent materials such as ceiling tiles, that are moldy, may need to be replaced.
8. Prevent condensation: Reduce the potential for condensation on cold surfaces (i.e., windows, piping, exterior walls, roof, or floors) by adding insulation.
9. In areas where there is a perpetual moisture problem, do not install carpeting (i.e., by drinking fountains, by classroom sinks, or on concrete floors with leaks or frequent condensation).
10. Molds can be found almost anywhere; they can grow on virtually any substance, providing moisture is present. There are molds that can grow on wood, paper, carpet, and foods.

Hurricane Harvey Strikes..

10/27/2017 (Permalink)

Cypresswood Landing Shopping Strip-2017 Hurricane Harvey Damage

This photo represents Cypress wood Landing Shopping Strip-2017 Hurricane Harvey Damage. What a terrible time for people who did not expect things to get as bad as they did.

When Hurricane Harvey hit, he flooded out over a quarter of Texas. Hurricane Harvey damages were estimated at around $190 Billion; this including homes, and businesses. The damages were saddening. Families lost their homes and have no where to live. Some left their homes in evacuation and come back to nothing...

If you are in need of damage control or mitigation from the hurricane still, please don't hesitate to contact us at our office 281-374-6454. We are here to help. We alone took in over 250 calls from people just like you all over the area.

It's a stressful time and no one should have to deal with it alone.

TEXAS STRONG, COME HELL OR HIGH WATER!!

10/27/2017 (Permalink)

Stay Texas Strong.

This hurricane season has been a rough one. People, families, children, business owners..etc..have lost homes,vehicles and business all across Texas.

During times like these, we truly begin to see the love of a community, friends and family come together and REBUILD. And yes, we will REBUILD!!!! Hurricane Harvey was a disaster that affected so many lives, and it will never be forgotten. As we took in calls about flooded homes and no way to get to them, it was devastating hearing their stories. It's in times like these that SERVPRO's all over will band together and get out to those homes and businesses and begin work when nobody else can.

As we look around us and see all of the fundraisers, and groups coming together in our communities to help one another, it is truly amazing. It helps us to remember that in bad situations and disasters such as Hurricane Harvey and Hurricane Irma, there is still so much good throughout our communities.

Let us all continue all of the hard work and efforts to rebuild our State. TEXAS STRONG, COME HELL OR HIGH WATER!!!!!!!

2018 Continuing Education Class Schedule

10/10/2017 (Permalink)

Needing Continuing Education Credits in the upcoming year?? We have our 2018 Continuing Education Class Schedule ready and we welcome you to join us at any of these courses. We hold classes every month to give you a chance to make it out!

The classes are FREE to the public, we have great instructors and light snacks and drinks are provided. COME AND JOIN US!!!!!

If you see any particular course that you are needing, just shoot us an email to smr@SERVPROspringtomball.com OR jack.goodroe@SERVPROspringtomball.com

and we will add you to the list in advance!

**ALSO if you have any questions regarding our Continuing Education Courses, please don't hesitate to ask. We are here to answer questions and help make the process easier for you!

Flooding Hazard!

8/8/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Spring/Tomball Please Call 281-374-6454

April Floods 2016-Tomball Regional, Tomball TX

Floods can be surprising. They can catch you off guard as to how bad they can get. You would be so surprised at what water can sneak its way into and through.

The disaster that our local Hospital faced in April of 2016. With over 8,000 square foot of the radiology department affected--this includes over 12 hallways and 67 rooms that were affected.

Being sure that we have the equipment, and the hands for work this big is very important to us. Our crews know the situation and get out there and get the work done as professional and quickly as possible while staying very meticulous.

Flooding can be dangerous and scary. Be sure to have emergency kits with you at all times in case of a storm.

Up Coming CE Class-August 17th

8/8/2017 (Permalink)

Are you in need of CE Credit Hours?

LUCKILY we host Continuing Education Courses every month right here at our facility! Each course is taught by either the Owners of our Franchise or one of our Production Managers.

Join us on August the 17th 2017 for our CE Class--this course will cover: Restoring Contaminated Buildings. This course is 2 hours long--from 9am to 11 am.

All classes are free of charge and include drinks and light snacks. We handle all of the paper work and get your certificate out to you as soon as possible. If you would like to RSVP please contact us at the information provided below.

Please contact Ashley Baker(marketing representative) at the information below if you have any questions regarding the CE Classes or if you are interested sending an RSVP:

Email: smr@SERVPROspringtomball.com

Cell: 281-804-8172

OR

Jack Goodroe (HR Generalist)

Email: jack.goodroe@SERVPROspringtomball.com

Phone: 281-374-6454

REVIEW & RATE!!!!!

7/26/2017 (Permalink)

Facebook Yelp Google

So you loved our services that we provided you after a disaster occurred? 

Or you have some concerns and would like us to know and take care of them?

WELL, IT MAY SEEM LIKE NOBODY USES IT-----BUT---Leaving us a review or rating on any of our three websites can help us make each and every job better one step at a time. We highly enjoy receiving reviews and ratings because of three honest reasons:

1.) We can address each customer based on their review/rating and publish it to our website!

2.) Why not make GREAT SERVICE known to others who are looking for a good company to perform work for them?

3.) It help's us is SO MANY WAYS by posting a good review for us!! And we are so incredibly grateful for them. We truly love reading the positive things people always have to say about SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball.

People don't realize these days that Reviews and Star Ratings can be SO IMPORTANT!!

So PLEASE, if you have every used us before for services, don't ever hesitate to leave us a rating or review on the links below.

https://www.facebook.com/SERVPRO.springtomball

https://www.yelp.com/biz/SERVPRO-of-spring-tomball-tomball-2

Google us at SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball to leave a google review

Emergency Ready Profiles

7/12/2017 (Permalink)

EMERGENCY READY PROFILE(ERP)!!

What is an ERP you ask? 

Well, an ERP is an Emergency Ready Profile that we make pertaining to the layout of your commercial building. ERP's are used in circumstances where a disaster has occurred and you contact us to come out and perform mitigation services. An ERP will help business' save time and money. This profile creates a less stressful manner of dealing with the disaster. 

An ERP will contain the following:

• A No Cost assessment of your facility.
• A Concise Profile Documentation that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
• Provides Facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information.
• Identifies the line of command for authorizing work to begin and authorization during the working process.

With this profile, SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball will have a complete layout of your building to be fully prepared for any disaster or incident strike!!

Don't let our first exposure to your building be during a disaster response. If we become familiar with your property now, we can get started with mitigation faster and get your business up to pace as quickly as possible.

If you have any questions, or are interested in and Emergency Ready Profile being done for your commercial building, please give us a call at 281-374-6454. 

CALL US TODAY TO GET STARTED!!

FREE CE CREDIT COURSE-Cleaning and Restoring Smoke Damaged Contents

7/5/2017 (Permalink)

TO ALL WHO ARE IN NEED OF CREDITS TOWARD THEIR CONTINUING EDUCATION:

SERVPRO Spring/Tomball will be hosting a 2 hr. Class on July 20th, 2017. The class will be on Cleaning and Restoring Smoke Damaged Contents. 

This course is specifically designed to explain the different approaches and techniques to scoping, cleaning, and restoring smoke-damaged contents. The purpose is to provide you with a better understanding of the work performed by the mitigation vendor at smoke-damaged work sites.

Restoring a customers contents is a pretty big goal for SERVPRO. We have an amazing contents and mitigation crew that are determined to get things back to the way they were.

Classroom Credit= 2 hours

Light Drinks and Snacks will be provided during class time.

TIME: 9am-11am

DATE: 7/20/2017

FOR RESERVATIONS:

Please call 281-374-6454 or Email Us at: jack.goodroe@SERVPROspringtomball.com OR smr@SERVPROspringtomball.com

We Provide CE Classes at our Facility!

6/28/2017 (Permalink)

2017 Full Year Schedule for CE Classes

Are you in need of Continuing Education credits????

Is the deadline for your license coming up????

Are you looking to gain knowledge in a certain course topic??

Good thing SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball holds different classes monthly!!

All classes are free of charge and include drinks and light snacks. We handle all of the paper work and get your certificate out to you as soon as possible.

Please contact Ashley Baker(marketing representative) or Jack Goodroe(Human Resources) at the information below if you have any questions regarding the CE Classes or if you are interested sending an RSVP:

Email: smr@SERVPROspringtomball.com

Cell: 281-804-8172

OR

Jack Goodroe (HR Generalist)

Email: jack.goodroe@SERVPROspringtomball.com

Phone: 281-374-6454

We would love to have you out to our classes and get you the credits that you need. Please don't hesitate to contact us with any questions you may have.

HURRICANE SEASON IS HERE!!!!

6/27/2017 (Permalink)

Hurricane Season is here and will be until around Early November as expected.

Let's talk FACTS: Most Hurricanes rage harmlessly in the sea without ever making landfall--but when they do you should be SERVPRO Ready!

Hurricanes cause billions of dollars worth of destruction EVERY YEAR. They can cause over 11,000 deaths, over 231 hurricane landfills absorbing homes, your local coffee shop and even a mall.

Be prepared! Here are some safety tips during Hurricane Season:

1.)  Stay Indoors

2.)  Unplug Appliances

3.)  Get a battery operated radio to listen to updates on the weather

4.)  Have a first aid kit handy

5.)  Stay together as a community, because there is nothing more powerful than a community that rebuilds together!

If flood waters reach into your home do as much as you can to either keep it out or get it out! Standing water, is bad water!

Stay safe, and watch the weather!

Christmas by the Numbers

12/15/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Spring/Tomball Please Call 281-374-6454

Festive celebrations, flickering lights and winter greens are hallmarks of the holiday season, but they also present fire risks that can quickly turn this festive time of year into a devastating one. For this reason, SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball would like to provide you with some resourceful statistics to ponder over this holiday season: 

1. Between 2010-2014, U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 210 home fires that started with Christmas trees per year. These fires caused an average of 6 deaths, 16 injuries, and $16.2 million in direct property damage annually. 
2. On average, one of every 34 reported home fires that began with a Christmas tree resulted in a death, compared to an average of one death per 142 total reported home fires.

3. U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated average of 860 home structure fires per year that began with decorations, excluding Christmas trees, in 2009-2013. These fires cause  an annual average of one civilian fire death, 41 civilian fire injuries and $13.4 million in direct property damage.

4. Half (51%) of the December home decoration fires were started by candles, compared to one-third (35%) in January to November.

    

Safety Tips When Using Heating Equipment

12/1/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Spring/Tomball Please Call 281-374-6454

Heating equipment is a leading cause of home fire deaths. Half of home heating equipment fires are reported during the months of December, January, and February. Some simple steps can prevent most heating-related fires from happening are below: 

• Keep anything that can burn at least three feet away from heating equipment, like the furnace, fireplace, wood stove, or portable space heater.
• Have a three-foot “kid-free zone” around open fires and space heaters.
• Never use your oven to heat your home.
• Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed.
• Always use the right kind of fuel, specified by the manufacturer, for fuel burning space heaters.
• Make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room. Ashes should be cool before putting them in a metal container. Keep the container a safe distance away from your home.

Texas A&M University Awards

11/14/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Spring/ Tomball

Texas A&M University recognized SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball at its 12th Annual Aggie 100 event. 

The 100 Aggie-owned or Aggie-led businesses with the highest annual growth revenues are honored.

We were proud to receive this award for the second year in a row and thank everyone involved. 

Here's to another year moving forward, looking forward to making this a tradition! 

Wet Insulation: A Hidden Hazard!

11/7/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Spring/Tomball Please Call 281-374-6454

Insulation can become wet in a variety of ways. A pipe could burst, a seam could have been improperly welded, or there could be a puncture somewhere on your roofing system, among a wide variety of other possibilities. However, just fixing the cause of the leak is not enough; the wet insulation must be removed. The following three points explain the ramifications of not tearing out wet insulation.

1. Structural Stability

As mentioned above, wet insulation can negatively impact your entire building. The trapped moisture can begin to degrade your roofing system starting with the deck and working it’s way out. Rotting can occur and lead to collapses throughout the structure. There is also the overall weight burden to consider. As the insulation collects moisture, it gets increasingly heavier. The pressure can be catastrophic to the building and lead to complete system collapse.

2. Energy Efficiency Compromised

The presence of wet insulation in your roof will generally negate the energy efficiency benefits of your roofing system. This is due to the fact that the moisture is acting as a conductor of energy rather than repelling it as it is designed. Your building will now require more heat in the winter and air conditioning in the summer, resulting in higher utility bills. Moisture can cause your insulation to lose as much as 40% of it’s thermal residence capabilities.

3. Indoor Air Quality

It is highly likely that your building is being occupied for a good portion of the day and/or night depending on what industry you are in. As a result, air quality is incredibly important. If your insulation in your roof is wet, mold and bacteria can grow. Not a good sign for healthy air or happy occupants. The longer you leave the wet insulation untreated, the greater the potential danger to your occupants.

It’s important to be proactive with wet insulation in order to prevent the above scenarios from happening. If you have any questions regarding wet insulation please call SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball at 281-374-6454. 

Home Vandalism Clean Up

11/1/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Spring/Tomball Please Call 281-374-6454

For home owners, there are few bigger headaches to come home than finding your home vandalized. Whether a broken window, an egged or keyed car or a front door defaced by graffiti, vandalism harms both the appearance and value of your home and property.

The key to relieving a home vandalism headache is having a quick restoration response plan.

1.) Remove any debris from the area vandalized. If your car or home was damaged by eggs, be sure to hose down the exterior of your vehicle or house. Vacuum glass particles from carpet and upholstery.

2.) Write down a complete inventory of all damaged and destroyed items.

3.) Promptly call your insurance company after discovering the damage. The longer you wait to report the damage, the more detrimental the damages will be. Gather any damaged items for your insurance company, who can use the items to estimate the size and take pictures.

4.) Report the damage to police. Law enforcement will help you gather evidence of the damage and will pursue the vandals.

The final step is simple: Call SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball to go to work for you and eliminate your home vandalism headache.

12 Tips to Prevent Workplace Fires

10/20/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Spring/Tomball Please Call 281-374-6454

October is National Fire Safety Month and while the main focus is on preventing residential fires, it is also a good time to revisit workplace fire safety and prevention. Below are 12 tips to ensure a fire-safe workplace:

Step 1. Get Organized– Practice good workplace housekeeping. Clutter contributes to fires by providing fuel and by preventing access to exits and emergency equipment.

Step 2. Designated Smoking Areas – Smoke only in designated areas, and extinguish smoking materials safely. Never smoke in storerooms or chemical storage areas.

Step 3. Fire Extinguishers – Maintaining the appropriate type and number of fire extinguishers and learn how to properly use a fire extinguisher.

Step 4. Electrical Hazards – Report all electrical hazards. Many fires start in faulty wiring and malfunctioning electrical equipment.

Step 5. Access to Control Panels – Electrical control panels need to have free access maintained so that the electric could be shut off easily.

Step 6. Maintenance – Maintain machinery to prevent overheating and friction sparks.

Step 7. Sprinkler Systems & Smoke Detectors – Never block sprinklers, firefighting equipment or emergency exits. Observe clearances when stacking materials. Testing of sprinkler systems and smoke detectors at least annually.

Step 8. Chemical Safety – Use and store chemicals safely. Read the label and the Material Safety Data Sheet to determine flammability and other fire hazards. Provide adequate ventilation when using and storing these substances.

Step 9. Waste Control & Storage – Control the accumulations of flammable and combustible waste materials and residues so that they do not contribute to a fire emergency.

Step 10. Prevent Ignition – Use all precautions to prevent ignition in potentially explosive atmospheres such as those containing flammable liquid vapors or fine particles. Use non-sparking tools, and control static electricity as required.

Step 11. Exits – Emergency exit diagrams should be posted and emergency exits should be well lit with neon-regulation signs.

Step 12. Contact Info – Employees should have a list of emergency contact phone numbers in case of emergency. Remember that people will often panic in an intense situation; therefore basics such as the company address, phone number and floor plan should be posted.

Tomball Food Truck Festival

10/17/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Spring/Tomball 281-374-6454

SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball would like to thank The City of Tomball for allowing us to be part of its first ever Tomball Freight Train Food Truck Festival.

It was incredible to see the amount of people who turned out to enjoy the festivities. 

Looking forward to being a part of this in years to come as well as sharing the experience with all of you! 

A Biohazard Warning

10/13/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Spring/Tomball Please Call 281-374-6454

Traumatic events often leave behind blood and other bodily fluids that can be hazardous to human health. There are also certain situations and conditions at home or work that may be hazardous to individuals without proper safety equipment. Below are 3 reasons you should call SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball if such an emergency were to occur:

• Safety: Whether it’s blood, potentially harmful bacteria, or medical waste, there are a number of hazardous materials that need to be cleaned up to avoid the spread of disease, viruses, or toxins. In order to thoroughly clean up the mess without risking your safety, it’s important to enlist the support of a professional emergency cleaning service. 

• Legal Concerns: Crime scenes, including car accidents and homicides, mandate special protocols to eliminate safety hazards as well as protect the integrity of the investigation. In the event of a legal matter, a reputable biohazard cleanup crew will have the training and experience necessary to comply with legal terms and complete the job effectively. When methamphetamine labs are discovered, they also need to be dealt with in compliance with governmental regulations. 

• Sterilization: After the hazardous materials have been removed, the scene needs still to be rid of potentially harmful bacteria. Trained professionals will thoroughly sterilize the area to eliminate any potential health risks to the public.

How Important Are Smoke Alarms?

10/6/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Spring/Tomball Please Call 281-374-6454

According to the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA), three of every five home fire deaths results from fires in homes with no smoke alarms (38%) or no working smoke alarms (21%). A majority of fatal fires happen when families are asleep because occupants are unaware of the fire until there is not adequate time to escape. A smoke alarm stands guard around the clock, and when it first senses smoke, it sounds a shrill alarm. All in all, smoke alarms are crucial elements in the early detection of fires. If you have not checked your smoke alarm in years or several months check out these statistics from the NFPA. 

Click this link The Smoke Alarm Effect

Breast Cancer Awareness

10/3/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Spring/Tomball 281-374-6454

SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball would like to thank all of those who participated in this years annual 5K and one mile Paces4Pink run.

This event truly embodies the importance of community and overall awareness we should all have surrounding Breast Cancer and other terminal illnesses.  

Looking forward to participating in more events like these in the future and enjoyed spending our time with everyone! 

How To Protect Your Home From Water Damage

9/19/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Spring/Tomball Please Call 281-374-6454

Water damage is one of the most common and costly disasters affecting U.S. residences, accounting for billions of dollars in losses to homeowners and renters annually. However, consumers can protect themselves with the right amount and type of insurance coverage. Generally speaking, water that comes from the top down, such as rainfall, is covered by a standard homeowners insurance policy, while water that comes from the bottom up, such as an overflowing river, is covered by a separate flood insurance policy.

By the same token, properly maintaining a home is one of the best ways to prevent water damage.  A homeowner can prevent water seepage by painting water-sealant around the basement, and avert a sewer backup by installing and maintaining a backwater valve which allows sewage to go out, but not come back in.

The Institute for Business & Home Safety offers these additional tips for homeowners: http://www.iii.org/article/how-protect-your-home-water-damage

What is Soot?

9/19/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Spring/Tomball Please Call 281-374-6454

Dealing with the aftermath of a house fire can be extremely stressful especially when soot has covered all of your belongings. It should be known that soot restoration is one of the most difficult aspects of a house fire. By the same token, soot can develop through three different methods:

• Wet soot residue—results from smoldering, low-heat fires. This residue is sticky, smeary, and has a very pungent odor.
• Dry soot residue—results from fast-burning fires with high temperatures. This residue is typically dry, powdery, and non-smeary.
• Protein residue—almost invisible but can discolor paints and varnishes in your home. This residue also has an extremely pungent odor.

Because each type of soot is different and requires specific expertise to clean it off your items effectively, it is best to call SERVPRO® of Spring/Tomball for such needs or concerns. It is our duty to serve our customers and help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Paces4Pink for Breast Cancer Awareness

9/13/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Spring/Tomball Please Call 281-374-6454

This October, pink warriors can run or walk a bit closer to home to fight breast cancer as the City of Tomball again stages its annual Paces4Pink on Saturday, October 1st, throughout the historic downtown district. Paces4Pink (formerly "Sherine's Stride") is a 5K certified run and 1-mile family walk through old Tomball to benefit breast cancer research and awareness. Funds raised through this event go to local non-profit, TOMAGWA to provide free breast cancer screenings. Please feel free to invite all friends and family to this great event! 

National Preparedness Month: Don't Wait. Communicate

9/7/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Spring/Tomball Please Call 281-374-6454

September is National Preparedness Month and as an ongoing effort to better help our community, we want to provide tips, tricks and products that we have found help make it easier to prepare for emergencies. The recent storms that have affected much of south serve as a reminder that we must take action to prepare, now and throughout the year, for future unexpected catastrophes.

The Power of O3: Odors Worst Nightmare

9/6/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Spring/Tomball 281-374-6454

How does one defeat a powerful odor? Well it is simple and the remedy comes in a form of a highly reactive molecule called ozone (O3)! For all you non-scientist out there, ozone is quick to chemically react to particles that it comes into contact with in the air and on surfaces. The extra oxygen atom in the ozone attaches itself to other molecules, chemically changing their structure to create non-offensive molecules – which eliminates the smell. 

By the same token, a common scenario involves people who have “tried everything” to get rid of a smell, but are still left with lingering scents that just don’t seem to go away.  One reason that ozone is effective in these situations is because, as a gas, ozone effectively “cleans” any place that air can go.  This includes air, walls, ceilings, ductwork, carpet fibers, gaps between floorboards, cracks in walls, and more.  Ozone is able to penetrate into these areas and destroy odors that it finds there.

The information provided by: http://www.ozonesolutions.com/journal/2009/how-does-ozone-remove-odor/

The Three Categories of Water Damage

8/24/2016 (Permalink)

A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage in an affected area. According to IICRC Standard and Reference Guide for Professional Water Damage Restoration, there are three categories of water that cause damage in buildings. They are summarized as the following:

Category 1 Water – That which is clean at the releasing source and does not pose a hazard if consumed by humans. Category 1 water may become progressively contaminated as it mixes with soils on or within floor coverings or building assemblies (walls, decking, subflooring). Time and temperature, which promote the growth and amplification of microorganisms in water can cause Category 1 water to degrade. Examples: burst water pipes, failed supply lines on appliances, vertically falling rainwater.

Category 2 Water – That which begins with some degree of contamination and could cause sickness or discomfort if consumed by humans. As with Category 1 water, time and temperature can cause Category 2 water to become progressively more contaminated.

Category 3 Water – That which is highly contaminated and could cause death or serious illness if consumed by humans. Examples: sewage, rising flood water from rivers and streams, ground surface water flowing horizontally into homes. There are two ways in which water enters a building as a result of wind storm damage.

The information provided by: http://www.IICRC.org/the-basics-water-damage-restoration-training-a-23.html

Roof Restoration or Replacement? 4 Things to Consider

3/16/2016 (Permalink)

For more information please contact SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball or check out some of our SATISFIED customer testimonials.

1. Restoration Costs Less

A complete roof replacement can be expensive in labor and materials, particularly if the existing roof must be removed first. Depending on the roofing system selected it can get very expensive. Restoration, on the other hand, requires less labor and materials, and thus costs less to restore vs. replace.

2. Restoration Extends Your Roof’s Life

You can defer complete replacement and make future plans for the expenditure in your capital budget.

3. Restoration is More Sustainable

Millions of tons of roofing waste end up in landfills annually. Because it allows you to reuse your existing roof, restoration is a much more environmentally friendly option. Plus, it can make your building more energy efficient and may help it qualify for ENERGY STAR or LEED credits.

4. Restoration Helps Prevent Catastrophic Loss

Ignoring the fact that your roof is deteriorating doesn’t make the problem go away; it can only get worse. The more time passes, the greater the potential damage and the more it costs to restore it. At some point, the only option will be total replacement. Continued neglect can put your business, employees and tenants at risk.

Smart Tips for Homeowners When it comes to Remodel/Construction in your Home

3/16/2016 (Permalink)

For more information about our Build Back Services please call SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball and check out some of our testimonials on our page.

1. Have a Clear Budget

One of the most important things is ensuring that you aren’t over-spending. It’s very easy to get carried away and fill your home with everything you want. This can make the price add up extremely quickly. The cabinets, flooring, and lights can always be upgraded later. Make sure you have a clear amount that you are okay with spending.

2. Pick a Good Builder

Not every builder is equal. It’s important to make sure your builder is reputable.

3. Pick a Good Locale

You want to make sure you’re close to everything you need. If you have kids, you may want to make sure that your new house is close to a school.

4. Keep Everything in Writing

Your interpretation of what you want and your builder’s interpretation of what you want may vary. Write everything down and go over everything with your builders. This ensures that your expectations and wants are very clear.

5. Don’t Make Unnecessary Changes

During the idea and planning stage, something may seem better on paper than in real life. Not everything is going to look the way you anticipated. If it’s something that you can see yourself getting used to, there’s no need to make a change. If it’s completely unbearable, you can make the change. However, remember that making changes will cause a delay and add to your costs.

6. Keep Your Relationship Professional

It’s important that your relationship with your builder remains professional. It may be a little too awkward to hire someone like your brother or father to build your house.

7. Be Involved

When you hire your builders, don’t just let them go on without any guidance or supervision. It’s important that you are involved in the process. This allows you to check up on progress and you can spot any issues before time runs out. You don’t want to show up on the last day of building and notice a ton of things that could have been fixed previously.

8. Prepare for Delays

No matter your builder says, the timetable for building a house always varies. Don’t let your expectations get too concrete. it’s important to be flexible.

9. Be Understanding

It’s important to make sure that you aren’t being too demanding of your builders. You may come to find that one of your ideas or plans will not come to fruition. Don’t get upset and let it go

10. Have Temporary Housing

As mentioned previously, you want to be prepared for delays. If the building process goes on longer than anticipated, it’s important that you have a place to stay.

3 Types of Cleaning after a Fire Damage

3/15/2016 (Permalink)

For more information call SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball at 281-374-6454

Structural Cleaning - After a smoke or fire damage, ceilings, walls, woodwork, carpeting and floors will often need a thorough cleaning. Your experienced local SERVPRO Franchise Professional will pretest to determine the extent of damage, and then use the specific equipment and cleaning products required to clean and protect the different types of surfaces found in your structure. Depending on the amount of soot, your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional may even be able to reduce the cost of recovery by cleaning lighter soot deposits found on some surfaces, eliminating the expense incurred with repainting or refinishing. In other cases, SERVPRO will clean to "prepare for painting". This process deodorizes and ensures the new paint will adhere properly to the surface.

Contents Cleaning - All of the restorable contents in affected areas will be professionally cleaned and deodorized. This includes area rugs, furniture, draperies and upholstery. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals begin by carefully inspecting and testing all fabrics in the structure to determine which cleaning methods are most appropriate. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals can provide wet or dry cleaning services. Additionally, all the other restorable contents will be cleaned and deodorized to preloss condition. This includes electronics, art, wood furniture, kitchen items, clothing, bedding, bric-a-brac and much more. Finally, SERVPRO can provide an inventory list of all "to be claimed" items if so requested.

Deodorization - SERVPRO Franchise Professionals provide specialized services that rid your home or place of business of offensive odors left by fire or smoke damage. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals do not merely cover up lingering odors with a fragrance, they seek out the sources of the odor and remove them. Ask your SERVPRO Franchise Professional to explain the various deodorization methods available and which will work best for you.

Spill Kit Equipment

3/11/2016 (Permalink)

For more information contact SERVPRO of Spring/Tomball at 281-374-6454

Any time you have an issue in your home, you need to seek professional guidance immediately. Here are some items that might be necessary under the guidance of a professional employee. 

The following items may be needed in handling a small accident.

10% Bleach solution

Gloves

Clear Plastic Bags

Biohazard Labels

Leak-Proof Sharps Containers (for multiple small spill/accident cleanups)

Brush & Dustpan, or tongs or forceps for picking up sharps

Disinfectant wipes